I really enjoyed this memoir, Peggy Rice opened her heart and her life for all to see. I loved her letters to Desiree. She loved and lost both pets and humans yet bounced back to give her love again. A well written life story. ( )

There is no doubt in my mind Peggy Race has had her share of heartbreak. This is how one dog was able to mend her heart and put her on a path of purpose. Losing her second husband of only nine months to a freakish accident, Peggy was lost. Dogs became her lifeline. One dog in particular was her saving grace.
Confessional: this took me a really long time to read. The language is extremely flowery, for lack of a better way to describe it. The overuse of the word "as" became obsessively distracting. I became acutely aware of every time it was used as an adverb, conjunction, or preposition. It just seemed to be everywhere. Additionally, every sentence with "ing" as a suffix was equally distracting. There seem to be a formula to Race's writing because "like" imagery was everywhere: "Like a film reel..." "Like the waters of Katrina..." "Like a blank chalkboard..." "Like a soundtrack of songs..." "Like a fresh coat of paint..." I could go on and on. I loved the story. I loved Peggy's devotion to puppy mill dogs and her volunteerism brought me to tears at times. I just couldn't synch with her writing style. ( )

It was an ok book. I found it very sad I was disappointed as I was expecting it to be more about the dog than the person. ( )

I admire the author's perseverance in writing her first book and her care for dogs. The book could have benefited from an expert editor. The first 40% of the book is sluggish and doesn't involve Desiree, the dog in the title and cover. It's not until she shows up that the story truly captured my attention. Even then I could have done without the letters to Desiree at the beginning of each chapter. These could have been integrated into the story for a better flow. I love dogs and was very excited to read this book. However, this book felt as if it is more about the author herself than her relationship with Desiree. As much as I wanted to like it, I would not reread or recommend this book. ( )

While I might not agree with all the thoughts and/or decisions made by the author, I have to say that this book pulled my heartstrings. Heartfelt and open, author's story of her life and the canine family who was a big part of her life, with which the personal growth is palpable. Engaging, easy to read book for people who loves animals, especially dogs! ( )