Unleashing Romance: Review of Pardon My Frenchie by Farrah Rochon @FarrahRochon @Hachette Audio @readforeverpub

“Pardon My Frenchie” combines a cute canine love story with a sizzling human romance in a thoroughly entertaining read.

From The Publisher:

Ashanti Wright is ecstatic over the success of her dog boarding business, Barkingham Palace. In fact, it has become so successful that Ashanti has plans to expand her empire with a doggie bake shop. There’s just one problem, the building she’s had her eye on has just been sold to the surly grandson of one of her favorite customers. 

Thaddeus Sims is not a dog person. He’s barely a person’s person. But when his grandmother is transferred to a senior living facility that doesn’t accept pets, the former army officer agrees to care for her annoying Standard Poodle, Puddin’. After all, it was with his grandmother’s help that Thad was able to buy the building that will soon house The PX, a sports bar/all-around hangout space for former servicemen that he plans to open.

Puddin’ and Ashanti’s French Bulldog, Duchess, have become a bit of a sensation on Barkingham Palace’s livestream because of their budding romance. When a video of the dogs sharing a doggy treat Lady and the Tramp-style goes viral, their owners are sucked into a media frenzy that captures the nation by storm…and creates some sparks for their owners too.

My Thoughts:

As a reader who cherishes romance stories involving our furry friends, I found Farrah Rochon’s “Pardon My Frenchie” an absolute delight. The story is irresistibly cute, sprinkled with just the right amount of steam, and boasts a cast of strong, relatable characters.

The narrative alternates between the perspectives of Ashanti Wright and Thaddeus Sims, providing a well-rounded view of their individual worlds. Ashanti is a determined young woman who has taken on the responsibility of raising her twin sisters after the tragic loss of their parents. Her entrepreneurial spirit shines through her successful dog boarding business, Barkingham Palace, and her burgeoning dog treat venture. Her plans for expansion are thrown into disarray when the building she covets is sold to Thaddeus Sims.

Thaddeus, a former army officer, is intent on transforming the property into The PX, a sports bar designed to connect veterans. Thaddeus is not exactly a dog lover, but he steps up to care for his grandmother’s Standard Poodle, Puddin’, after she moves to a senior living facility that doesn’t allow pets. This duty brings him to Ashanti’s doorstep, and sparks fly when they meet.

The real charm of the book lies in the adorable relationship between Ashanti’s French Bulldog, Duchess, and Thaddeus’s Poodle, Puddin’. Their antics on Barkingham Palace’s livestream captivate viewers, and a viral video of them sharing a treat Lady and the Tramp-style thrusts Ashanti and Thaddeus into an unexpected media spotlight.

The story’s enemies-to-lovers trope is executed wonderfully. Ashanti and Thaddeus’s initial friction slowly melts away as they bond over their viral fame and shared experiences during a media trip to New York. Despite the predictability of their romance arc, the journey is engaging and heartwarming, filled with plenty of canine capers to keep dog lovers entertained.

The Narration:

Listening to the audiobook version narrated by J.Y. Kora and Redd Vines added an extra layer of enjoyment. Their lively narration brought the characters and the story to life, making it an immersive experience. I highly recommend this format for those who appreciate audiobooks.

Final Thoughts:

In summary, “Pardon My Frenchie” is a charming and enjoyable read that combines romance and the undeniable appeal of our four-legged companions. If you’re a fan of feel-good stories with a hint of spice and a lot of doggy delight, this book is for you.

Other Books I’ve Reviewed Written By Farrah Rochon:

The Hookup Plan

The Dating Playbook