Scan barcode
elizmarie's review against another edition
emotional
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
salreads's review
3.0
Lockdown reading has affected my reading choices as with so many things. I have sought some lighter, happier reads with a little romance and a little comedy. The Dog Sitter appealed because I love the two things at the heart of it – dogs and the Lake District. If you love both you will enjoy this read. Becky is escaping from a broken relationship which has knocked her confidence and undermined her relationship with her family. She takes a housesitting job in the Lake District which also includes looking after the resident cockapoo, Bella. Looking after Bella is made more difficult by the fact that a handsome man appears to be asserting ownership and threatening to take Bella. The setting is beautiful, beside a lake and looking out to the amazing Cumbrian scenery, Bella is a bundle of fluffiness and the handsome man is something of a gorgeous muscle man and the chemistry begins to fizz. This is a gentle, happy, read. I lapped up the scenery which is beautifully described and greatly appealing particularly in lockdown! Bella is without doubt the star of the show, she totally gets into your heart. It is clear that Stoneley knows her dogs and her dog paraphernalia! The chemistry bubbles along nicely between Ash and Becky and Becky’s art feels very real – I could almost visualise the paintings. I wasn’t totally convinced by the ex boyfriend’s appearance or by the motivations of Georgina, the home owner, and I found the focus on Ash’s muscles a bit too much for me. However, this was a book which distracted me in a lovely way and I very much enjoyed it. With thanks to One More Chapter and Netgalley for a digital copy of this book.
chasingmrdarcy's review
4.0
This is such a cute book! I really enjoyed the characters and the relationships the author built. This book was engaging from start to finish, and I could not put it down. I would love to know more about these characters in a follow-up!
cat_theodore's review
2.0
Realising too early on that a book won't work for you when you were excited to read it is the worst. I wanted to dnf this WAAYYYY before the 25% mark, but I'm stubborn af and I like to give books a chance to change my mind. This book didn't even TRY.
Insta-love just ain't it for me and I KID YOU NOT Becky wanted to jump Ash's bones from the second she saw a photo of him on Instagram. I also found Ash's character really creepy with all the dog-napping thing and the always being RIGHT THERE. I didn't feel ANY chemistry between them. I felt so disconnected that I don't think I'd care if they didn't end up together. The author also tried too hard to make Georgina a villain. Sure, she was already annoying and highkey a control freak when she was away, but once she got back? OBNOXIOUS. MANIPULATIVE. DISRESPECTFUL. Not to mention that her HEA was unrealistic.
I ended up reading most of the non-dialogue parts diagonally because honestly I just wanted to be done with it ASAP. The only thing that did it for me (and is preventing me from giving this 1* tbh) was Bella, because let's face it, no other character was likeable enough or rememberable, and YET it still pisses me off that the dog on the cover is white and not BLACK. I know it's a minor mistake but DETAILS . ARE . IMPORTANT.
Insta-love just ain't it for me and I KID YOU NOT Becky wanted to jump Ash's bones from the second she saw a photo of him on Instagram. I also found Ash's character really creepy with all the dog-napping thing and the always being RIGHT THERE. I didn't feel ANY chemistry between them. I felt so disconnected that I don't think I'd care if they didn't end up together. The author also tried too hard to make Georgina a villain. Sure, she was already annoying and highkey a control freak when she was away, but once she got back? OBNOXIOUS. MANIPULATIVE. DISRESPECTFUL. Not to mention that her HEA was unrealistic.
I ended up reading most of the non-dialogue parts diagonally because honestly I just wanted to be done with it ASAP. The only thing that did it for me (and is preventing me from giving this 1* tbh) was Bella, because let's face it, no other character was likeable enough or rememberable, and YET it still pisses me off that the dog on the cover is white and not BLACK. I know it's a minor mistake but DETAILS . ARE . IMPORTANT.
faysieh's review
4.0
This was a hugely enjoyable romp of ridiculousness and romance. I am embarrassed to say that along with Becky I too fell for the charms and hot bod of Ash James. I can only put it down to middle age and the menopause! Although funny, it was also quite predictable and in places had me cringing. Yet, why should I try and pretend that this chick lit did not light up something within me? Highbrow it ain't, but The Dog Sitter is hilarious, feel-good, welcome escapism. Throw in the canine element and the will they-wont' they tussle, and you end up with a loveable bundle of joy in the form of exuberant Bella, lacking in confidence Becky and SAS Ash!
As I read on, I really warmed to the characters and events, especially where Becky starts believing in her own artistic talents and makes independent decisions about her career. It sounded so idyllic, walking Bella, illustrating back at the house and trying and failing at not falling in love with Ash, that you would have to be in a super grumpy mood not to crack a smile over the antics that play out in the Lake District. I have very fond memories of the area and so the book transported me back to happier, fitter, more tranquil days and for that I thank the author immensely.
As I read on, I really warmed to the characters and events, especially where Becky starts believing in her own artistic talents and makes independent decisions about her career. It sounded so idyllic, walking Bella, illustrating back at the house and trying and failing at not falling in love with Ash, that you would have to be in a super grumpy mood not to crack a smile over the antics that play out in the Lake District. I have very fond memories of the area and so the book transported me back to happier, fitter, more tranquil days and for that I thank the author immensely.
sarareadstoomuch's review against another edition
3.0
If you consider yourself a dog lover, this is the book for you.
A cute cockapoo named Bella is the star of this book and will give you all the feels for having a cute and energetic dog around as if they're in the same room with you! Becky is the main character of this story and it is such fun to see how she gets on with Bella throughout the story along with the romantic relationship that is also happening at the same time. Plus, she's an artistic character which I don't see often!
If you want a fun and light read that is filled with dogs then this is the book for you!
I found that there wasn't much of a romance as much as there was different aspects of the story so if you're looking for a romance book containing steam, then you must look elsewhere.
Thank you NetGalley and One More Chapter for the earc to review.
A cute cockapoo named Bella is the star of this book and will give you all the feels for having a cute and energetic dog around as if they're in the same room with you! Becky is the main character of this story and it is such fun to see how she gets on with Bella throughout the story along with the romantic relationship that is also happening at the same time. Plus, she's an artistic character which I don't see often!
If you want a fun and light read that is filled with dogs then this is the book for you!
I found that there wasn't much of a romance as much as there was different aspects of the story so if you're looking for a romance book containing steam, then you must look elsewhere.
Thank you NetGalley and One More Chapter for the earc to review.
frazpan's review against another edition
The writing - ⭐⭐⭐
The story - ⭐⭐⭐
Overall - ⭐⭐⭐
This was an easy read, but honestly I didn't feel like I really enjoyed it all that much. The characters felt a bit flat and other than Becky coming out of the other side of her break up and finally standing up for herself I didn't really feel she developed much as a character. Similarly I didn't particularly buy into the romance with Ash.
Fave quote - 'He gives a rueful smile and it's like a little bubble of happy has burst inside of me and is rippling its way outwards. I'm like a newly poured glass of fizz.'
Fave moment - The doggy birthday party, complete with Becky finally sticking up for herself against Teddy.
This ARC was provided to me by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
The story - ⭐⭐⭐
Overall - ⭐⭐⭐
This was an easy read, but honestly I didn't feel like I really enjoyed it all that much. The characters felt a bit flat and other than Becky coming out of the other side of her break up and finally standing up for herself I didn't really feel she developed much as a character. Similarly I didn't particularly buy into the romance with Ash.
Fave quote - 'He gives a rueful smile and it's like a little bubble of happy has burst inside of me and is rippling its way outwards. I'm like a newly poured glass of fizz.'
Fave moment - The doggy birthday party, complete with Becky finally sticking up for herself against Teddy.
This ARC was provided to me by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
onebookmore's review against another edition
4.0
A fun and quick read about following your heart, believing in love, and being true to who you are The Dog Sitter follows Becky, a funny and smart woman who is floundering a bit. After a shocking break-up and job loss, Becky needs to reevaluate her goals and desires. She’s also looking for a little inspiration. So, she takes a job as a house and dog sitter at a remote home in the beautiful Lake District where she can focus on herself. Little does she know, her new job isn’t as relaxing as it seems, and Becky finds herself caught between two exes bickering over dog ownership.
Becky is a wonderful protagonist. She has a great sense of humor, and I love her quick wit. Her thoughts when exercising are hilarious (and realistic), and even though her life isn’t where she wants it to be, she still has a positive outlook. Throughout the book, she takes charge of her life, reignites her creativity, and begins to realize her true potential. Becky is creative, smart, and relatable, and I love that she takes the steps to regain her confidence and sense of self.
The romance is fantastic, and Ash sounds like a total hunk! I love Becky’s thoughts when she first meets him and the comical way she handles herself when around him. They meet under uncomfortable and awkward circumstances, but their relationship grows into a wonderful romance. The more Becky and Ash get to know and understand each other, the stronger their bond becomes. I love their chemistry, and how cute Ash is with the adorable Bella.
This review wouldn’t be complete without discussing Bella, the cute and spunky whirlwind of a dog that Becky is taking care of. Bella is so charming and adorable; it’s no wonder she’s an Instagram hit! I adore this rambunctious pup and love the levity and positivity she brought to Becky’s life. Bella is just the distraction Becky needs, and the constant dog disasters and mishaps are hilarious!
I enjoyed this charming and entertaining story, and it was the perfect read to pass the weekend! If you’re in the mood for a cute and light rom-com with charming characters, a beautiful setting, and an adorable dog, then this is the book for you. Thanks so much to the author and Rachel’s Random Resources for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
Becky is a wonderful protagonist. She has a great sense of humor, and I love her quick wit. Her thoughts when exercising are hilarious (and realistic), and even though her life isn’t where she wants it to be, she still has a positive outlook. Throughout the book, she takes charge of her life, reignites her creativity, and begins to realize her true potential. Becky is creative, smart, and relatable, and I love that she takes the steps to regain her confidence and sense of self.
The romance is fantastic, and Ash sounds like a total hunk! I love Becky’s thoughts when she first meets him and the comical way she handles herself when around him. They meet under uncomfortable and awkward circumstances, but their relationship grows into a wonderful romance. The more Becky and Ash get to know and understand each other, the stronger their bond becomes. I love their chemistry, and how cute Ash is with the adorable Bella.
This review wouldn’t be complete without discussing Bella, the cute and spunky whirlwind of a dog that Becky is taking care of. Bella is so charming and adorable; it’s no wonder she’s an Instagram hit! I adore this rambunctious pup and love the levity and positivity she brought to Becky’s life. Bella is just the distraction Becky needs, and the constant dog disasters and mishaps are hilarious!
I enjoyed this charming and entertaining story, and it was the perfect read to pass the weekend! If you’re in the mood for a cute and light rom-com with charming characters, a beautiful setting, and an adorable dog, then this is the book for you. Thanks so much to the author and Rachel’s Random Resources for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
so_brookeish's review against another edition
4.0
3.5 stars rounded up to 4!
To be honest, this one took me a bit to get into. There is a bit more cursing than I usually like in a romance read, the plot seemed extremely repetitive, and there was a lot of “telling” me what was driving the main character and very little “showing” me. It became a bit of a game for me, how many different ways can she state in her mind that she wants to sleep with the male MC!? It was a bit of a bumpy start.
With that being said, after the halfway mark I feel like the author really found her stride and the book took off! The characters developed, I was able to see the depth of the story, and I began to believe the love story that was unfolding. Really all of that was this books saving grace for me! I loved the twists in the end that made Ash who he is, and I adored the way that Beck really came into her own by following her passions and shirking off the limitations and expectations of other.
I do sort of wish the ex’s of the main characters hadn’t been written so villainous and awful, it seemed a bit too easy from a readers standpoint, like I was being led to a really blatant and easy point to grasp. But those characters were balanced out nicely by fantastic family, both born into and found on their own!
All in all I enjoyed this one and I’d be willing to recommend it to a few friends who like a lower steam romance!
To be honest, this one took me a bit to get into. There is a bit more cursing than I usually like in a romance read, the plot seemed extremely repetitive, and there was a lot of “telling” me what was driving the main character and very little “showing” me. It became a bit of a game for me, how many different ways can she state in her mind that she wants to sleep with the male MC!? It was a bit of a bumpy start.
With that being said, after the halfway mark I feel like the author really found her stride and the book took off! The characters developed, I was able to see the depth of the story, and I began to believe the love story that was unfolding. Really all of that was this books saving grace for me! I loved the twists in the end that made Ash who he is, and I adored the way that Beck really came into her own by following her passions and shirking off the limitations and expectations of other.
I do sort of wish the ex’s of the main characters hadn’t been written so villainous and awful, it seemed a bit too easy from a readers standpoint, like I was being led to a really blatant and easy point to grasp. But those characters were balanced out nicely by fantastic family, both born into and found on their own!
All in all I enjoyed this one and I’d be willing to recommend it to a few friends who like a lower steam romance!