A Dog's Chance

By

Casey Wilson

After reading Casey Wilson's first book called "A Dog's Hope" I was thrilled and honored to have the opportunity to read "A Dog's Chance".   Ms. Wilson writes the best novels with dogs as her main characters.  I've always been a dog lover and reading books that feature dogs is just the best for me!  This book is no exception.....a best! 

It's not always the person who finds the dog but the dog who finds and chooses its person.  There is a connection between them that's just meant to be.  Duke is that kind of a dog.  He is an abandoned "dump dog" puppy and he longs to be in a family.  Because of destiny or fate, he happens upon a very sad elderly man, Arthur, and he just knows he can comfort him. This is his person!   There is an instant bond between them and that's where the story of Duke grabs my heart and takes me on his journey.   Dogs bring such joy into the lives of the people they choose and Duke is there for Arthur. 

Madison is a traveling nurse practioner and a single mom of a 14 year old daughter, Abbie, who's struggling with anxiety.  Madison's next assignment brings them to the town of Millbury.  This place just seems to be where they belong but there's a reason they can't get complacent and settle down.  Madison just can't become attached to anyone or anything. It's not worth the risk.   But....who can resist Duke?  He's such a lovable and intuitive golden retriever and connects with Abbie.  As does Madison connect with Arthur.  Now what will she do and how will she ever be able to leave this new family?

I love the way this story is written between the two POVs.  One is Duke's and the other is Madison's.   Ms. Wilson has created a dialogue with Duke's voice that is so unique, touching and compassionate.  She's put into "words" what those soulful eyes and expressions dogs have and what they would say if they could actually talk.  Duke is a very wise puppy and he loves through his heart.  "Dogs see what's inside, what's underneath, and we have a keen awareness of how humans are feeling and what's churning inside, deep below the surface."  Duke is so intune with his people.   Throughout the story, Ms. Wilson weaves Duke's instincts and connection to bring the characters together.

This story has so many of the "feels" that make it a great dog-lover story.  Duke channels his inner "Lassie" so many times.  One point in particular of the story.  I loved watching Lassie when I was a little girl and this book reminded me so much of that.  The love of a dog for his family.  Always faithful to protect and comfort.

Duke had challenges when he was a pup.  He was the runt of the litter and overlooked. But his mother encouraged him and told him he was "destined for greatness".   He is  loyal, devoted and loves unconditionally.  "Just because I was different and smaller, didn't mean I wasn't powerful.  Stature, breed, looks-all are labels that serve only to limit, but they don't determine our strength.  Dogs know what's on the outside isn't important; it's what's deep in your heart that defines you." I love Duke!!   He is a GREAT dog!

I am so honored to have read this book.  Ms. Wilson's wonderful gift of writing is even more incredible in the way she expresses the inner thoughts of the dog  characters she brings to life.  I love her dedication to her sweet pup, Izzy.  Dogs do heal hearts and bring joy.  This book is full of this.   Huge thanks to Ms. Wilson for the copy of this wonderful story.  I loved the journey with Duke and his family.  All opinions and thoughts in this review are my heartfelt own.