Reviewed by Susan van der Walt for Readers' Favorite

In Lawyers, Dogs, and Money: A Veronica Kildare K-9 Mystery Book 2 by Tracy Carter, Veronica Kildare moves to Colorado to get away from her traumatic past involving the death of her fiance. His violent death still haunts her in her dreams. Her father, Bob, buys a former day spa and converts it to a dog training facility. It enables her to start her Dogged Pursuit K-9 business, training dogs for various uses such as drug detection or service dogs to warn about allergies, and even training a dog as a protection dog for an older woman. She and her dog, Leda, also actively work to find missing persons and search for drugs and contraband in schools and businesses. But when they try to help a friend, Kadri, who suspects someone is stalking her, they get entangled in a dangerous web of intrigue, putting Veronica again in danger.

I love Leda, Veronica's service dog - well-trained, courageous, and always eager to work. Tracy Carter introduces us to dogs from the various breeds Veronica is training and describes their unique characteristics and personalities. We also get some insight into the techniques used to train dogs to detect drugs, peanuts, etc. Although this is not a fast-paced novel, the author keeps the reader engaged by slowly revealing clues about Kadri's dilemma through Bob's research. I recommend Lawyers, Dogs, and Money to dog lovers who will fall in love with the various dogs in the story and will cheer Veronica on as she strives to solve the puzzling mystery of Kadri's stalker.

Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite

Fins is an action-packed sharksploitation novel by Gene Helfman. A series of seemingly random shark attacks in a marine reserve along the California coast causes panic and chaos among the general public, leaving people puzzled by their behavior. To an outsider, it looked like revenge attacks by non-native sharks whose fins have been cruelly cut off from their bodies by pirates to be sold on the illegal smuggling market. Ashley Worth is a lab technician for AlphaGen Technologies, who, alongside IT specialist Clive Moulton, stumbles upon an underlying criminal conspiracy that has direct links to these attacks. The unlikely duo delves deeper into the investigation, only to find themselves targeted by the man responsible for all these events. With the National Guard being called upon to eliminate the sharks, will Ashley and Clive be able to save their lives?

Hollywood movies such as Jaws and others have always featured sharks as the bad guys in their stories. Gene Helfman parodies those movies perfectly with a seamless combination of thrilling action and dry humor in Fins. With a fast-paced plot and vibrant characters that leap off the pages, Helfman delivers an absolute rollercoaster that entertains you from start to finish. The narrative tone reminded me of Director Robert Rodriguez's movies, where there is plenty of blood and gore, yet the humor somehow cuts through all the tension. I enjoyed every moment of it and flew through the pages. Fins is the kind of book I will recommend to readers who love satirical novels that don't take themselves too seriously.

Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite

The Horseman Who Came From the Sea by Jeff Turner is gentle, historical fiction at its very best. Henry Cameron was a young man in turmoil when he and his best friend attended a camp aimed at introducing young teenagers to a life at sea. Henry thought he would follow in his father’s footsteps as a ship’s captain. Whilst at the academy, run by his uncle, Henry’s friends were determined to enlist in the army and join the great overseas adventure that was World War I, despite them all being underage. At the last minute, Henry balked at the idea and only his friend Mickey traveled to Europe to fight the good fight. WWI ended and many of America’s finest men came home damaged and missing limbs, including Henry’s friend Mickey. A lieutenant at the Academy had taken Henry under his wing and introduced him to life on his Vermont horse farm. When the lieutenant, along with thousands of others, caught and died from the Spanish Flu epidemic, Henry was shocked to discover he had been left the farm and wealth. Determined to make a success of the farm and honor the lieutenant’s legacy, Henry's first task was to find Mickey, however damaged he might be, and bring him back to the restorative atmosphere of the farm and its horses.

If The Horseman Who Came From the Sea was primarily a romance, it would be known as a cozy romance, so that is the term I will adopt for it. This is cozy historical fiction. Author Jeff Turner has created an ensemble cast of wonderfully warm and loving characters who populate this gorgeous and enervating ranch in the rural hinterland of Vermont. The kindness, civility, and caring nature of the inhabitants of this bucolic treasure just invite the reader in to “sit a spell.” The decency and humanity of Henry and his friends form a wonderful counterpoint to both the archetypal lazy, incompetent, drunk, and mildly corrupt small-town sheriff, who uses his power and position to bully others to get what he wants, as well as Henry's mean and bitter uncle. I particularly appreciated the independent and incredibly gifted young woman in the character of Abigail, a talented horsewoman seeking a home and a place to put down roots, something which she would find on the farm. The romance is sweet and gentle and the prose is simple, inviting, and warm. I, like other readers, no doubt, couldn’t help but notice the corollaries between the fear and panic of the unknown with the Spanish Flu epidemic and our recent brush with a pandemic; the Coronavirus. In reality, not much has changed in human behavior in a hundred years. I can honestly say, given the types of books I’ve read lately, how much pleasure it was to read a simple, moving story with a message of morality, honesty, love, and family. I can highly recommend The Horseman Who Came From the Sea.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Canine Complaints is a work of fiction in the animal adventures, action, and drama genres. Penned by author Louise DeVito and assisted by Arthur Dogson Todd, this charming novel chronicles the adventures of Arthur Dogson Todd, an energetic pup who arrives at Misty Meadows Farm and encounters modern society's seemingly innocuous social mores. Renamed by Mr. Cliff, Arthur navigates his new world with suspicion, focusing on perceived assaults on dignity and freedom. Fuelled by keen insights and comedic word battles, Arthur's resolve to fight strengthens, leading him to elevate his self-image to a Dominant Force for Good. Through therapeutic naps and memorable encounters, Arthur embarks on a journey filled with wit, wisdom, and wordplay.

Author Louise DeVito has crafted an absolute delight of a read for animal fans everywhere, offering a unique perspective through the eyes of Arthur Dogson Todd that is narrated with wit, humor, and hope. What really stands out about this novel is its deep roots in the real world and the genuine heart at its core, which is enhanced by the astute social commentary and uplifting theme of self-help and motivation that bubbles under its surface. Arthur's observations of human society are well-penned with excellent narrative and thought presentation, and his determination to uphold the dignity and freedom of all beings is a warm core message that’s sincere and never cheesy. The witty wordplay and vivid imagery brought Arthur's adventures to life with details, atmosphere, and amusing sights through canine eyes. Overall, Canine Complaints is a highly recommended read for those seeking a bright ray of hope and a good chuckle.

Reviewed by Essien Asian for Readers' Favorite

Frankie starts making unusual breakthroughs in her research on the brain activity of animals to the surprise of both her friends and her colleagues. They do not know that she has an interesting gift that allows her to communicate with the animals and insects she finds around her. What she views as nothing more than a passing activity takes a serious turn when these animals press her to look deeper into her origins as they know something about her that she needs to discover for herself. This leads her on a journey across the country to find the truth behind the unusual circumstances surrounding her birth in This Animal Body by Meredith Walters.

A young woman comes to terms with her present circumstances by making peace with her past in This Animal Body by Meredith Walters. Her storyline reads like an alternative version of Doctor Dolittle where the comedic behavior is replaced with intelligent, mind-blowing science cloaked in an aura of mystery. Breaking down the motivations of the principal character is quite a process as Frankie's attitude and actions whenever she is near Brian give the distinct feeling she is not certain what she wants from him. The icing on the cake has to be Frankie's conversations with the animals. Just the thought of a highly intellectual chat with a cockroach who happens to be well-versed in all things concerning evolution is a tantalizing prospect that tickles the imagination. Despite much activity surrounding Frankie's search for her birth parents, Walters is still able to blend in subplots on romance and animal safety to give the overall story some very impressive depth. This Animal Body is an interesting book told from a viewpoint that will pique the interest of the avid magical realism fan.

Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite

Swan Song is a young adult adventure novel featuring animals as central characters by award-winning film producer and bestselling author Lynn Santer. Inspired by the swans and other animals living on Santer's subtropical property on Australia's Gold Coast, the book follows the animals on the fictional Hen Swamp Island, where Queen Swan Serena and her beloved King Hugh reside. Serena and Hugh rule over a peaceful kingdom, but trouble arises when their daughter, Isis, moved by revenge, brings back the tyrant Hannibal as her mate to challenge Hugh. After a draining battle, Hugh loses his life and kingdom to Hannibal, whose atrocities force Serena and her newborn Prince to flee and the other animals to rise in revolt. Will the white duck Lord Quacksalot find Serena and the Prince in time? Can Isis find her redemption?

Some real-world parallels in Lynn Santer's story shed light on the issue of immigrants and the problems they face while acclimating to their new environments. Swan Song, at its heart, is a coming-of-age story about two sibling heirs to the Swan kingdom who choose two very different paths to react to life's challenges. Lynn Santer draws inspiration from watching the swans on her own property to weave a fascinating tale of love, sacrifice, and redemption. There are some delightful shoutouts to movies and other pop culture references sprinkled throughout the book, which adds another fun engagement factor to the narrative. Animal lovers will find the book particularly heartwarming as Santer captures animal behavior and social interactions flawlessly on the page. Highly recommended.

Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite

Saving Snow Dragon: A Horse’s Perilous Journey of Survival Against Man and Nature by Ann Feifel is a story that will stir the emotions of any animal lover. A prized white horse gallops to freedom in the inhospitable mountains of Wyoming. Freedom comes at a price as Snow Dragon faces danger. She will not face it alone because she joins forces with a black stallion Ace, who protects his band of wild horses. While they fight for their freedom against people who want to take it away from them, they will also meet new friends along the way. Liesel Annamarie Fletcher doesn't take no for an answer, especially when it comes to the horses that she fancies. Together with Devon Marshall, they are two of the biggest threats that Snow Dragon and Ace are going to face. 

Saving Snow Dragon is bold and is not afraid to adopt the old-school dramatic sentiment epitomized by Black Beauty and Bambi. Both human and animal characters are well-defined and display their emotions and motives strongly. Ann Feifel delivers powerful messages, which are compassion and our sense of accountability to our animal friends. This idea is embodied in the way Feifel explores both animal and human points of view. There is brutal realism in the way the plot illustrates the attitude of some toward horses as a form of property that must be treated as such. Yet it similarly highlights those who respect horses and treat them as equals. These ideals are insightful and strengthen the storyline. It's an emotionally moving story that will make you breathless with anticipation for the next volume.

Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite

Living in the rough at the end of a chain, with meager portions of food once a day, isn’t much of a life for a dog. To be taken into a ring to fight to the death isn’t much better. So, when wounded and abandoned by the dog-fighting hustler, Goose realizes his chain is unlocked and he has his ticket to freedom. His dog mates urge him to escape and a friendly coyote helps him limp to safety. Deeper in the woods, Goose finds Clarence living alone in a rustic cabin, hiding from the world. Injured and with no fight left, Goose gives in to Clarence’s tender care and the two develop a deep bond. When Goose leads Clarence back to the dog fighting enclave, a shocked Clarence realizes he has to return to town to seek help, only help isn’t always easy to find when the powers that be are only too glad to see him return to the woods.

Will Lowrey’s novel, The Dog in the Hollow, is a raw look at a sad side of reality: dog fighting. It’s illegal and downright barbaric, but people continue to raise dogs to fight and support this malicious sport. Told in third person narrative, mostly from Goose’s point of view, the plot follows the injured dog to freedom and a good life with someone he really can trust and love. Readers' eyes will be filled with tears as they follow Goose's trail, and they’ll enjoy some of the tender sweet moments shared between Goose and his new friend, Clarence. Dialogue is used sparingly as the story unfolds in narrative form until the plot reveals Clarence’s sad story. Like the many classic animal stories, such as Anna Sewell’s Black Beauty, Margaret Marshall Saunders’ Beautiful Joe, and many others, this story will definitely find its place in the hearts of those that enjoy them.

Reviewed by Kimberlee J Benart for Readers' Favorite

The Stallion and His Peculiar Boy: Based On the Life of the Famous Arabian Horse Witez II is a work of historical fiction by M.J. Evans set in the period 1943 - 1965. Teodor is a non-communicative autistic boy living in Hostau, Czechoslovakia, where the finest captured horses from all over Europe are sent to a Nazi breeding farm. Teodor meets Witez, the two bond immediately, and he becomes a worker at the farm where he trains as Witez’s groom. Later, as the war ends and the horses come under the threat of being slaughtered for food by the advancing Russian Army, some German officers ask the United States Army to rescue the animals and take them out of Czechoslovakia. Soon, Teodor accompanies Witez to America on the adventure of a lifetime.

In The Stallion and His Peculiar Boy, M.J. Evans gives us an entertaining and informative account of the Polish horse who became a premier stallion in the pedigree of the Arabian breed in the United States. Told in part through the fictional character of Teodor and sensitive to his therapeutic and devoted bond with Witez over the years, it blends the suspense of a World War II military rescue operation with the subsequent challenges of resettlement in a new land with new owners. The narrative is engaging and moves at a good pace. The choice of an autistic protagonist adds a special dimension, and Teodor is both relatable and believable. Suitable for young adult and adult readers, this story is sure to please anyone who enjoys good historical fiction.

Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite

Dogged Pursuit by Tracy Carter introduces Veronica, who is no stranger to danger. She’s been shot before, but that doesn’t stop her from stepping in when needed, like the episode in a back alley where some boys were beating up a stray dog and Veronica and her trusty dog Leda charged to the rescue. That’s when they meet Michael, another young man, but with a kind, hardworking streak, and one who loves and cares for dogs. That’s enough for Veronica to offer him a job and a home. Immersed in caring for and training dogs, Veronica is slowly healing from a past brutal experience, but when a leading scientist goes missing, one whose testimony is paramount in a high-profile murder trial, it takes all her strength, and that of her trusty canine companion Leda to find the missing doctor. Veronica may have been a victim once, but never again. Not with Leda by her side.

Tracy Carter’s debut novel Dogged Pursuit is a canine mystery that will engross dog lovers and mystery readers to the very end. With a spectacular setting in the Colorado mountains, the author has set a compelling stage for the characters, both human and canine. The plot follows Veronica and Leda on their paths to find people, sniff out drugs, and rescue abused stray dogs. Each little story within the developing plot will have readers cheering for this engaging duo. The characters, both human and canine, are well-developed, the dog training facts are well-researched and shared in an interesting and informative format, and the descriptive narrative makes the scenes awe-inspiring. A great read.