What rescue dogs can teach us

BJ Taylor and I have known each other for about ten years. During that time we've been members of the same writing group, we've critiqued each other's work, we've traveled to writers conferences together, and we've even roomed together. To say she's my friend is an understatement. She's a very dear friend. She's one of the first people I call whenever my universe turns upside down.

Like all good friends, we have a lot things in common—writing being one of them. But there's another thing we have in common. Dogs.

We love, love, love dogs.

[BJ and Charlie Bear]

And we've both made every effort possible to choose rescue pets whenever we're looking for another furry friend. So, I know all about her recent rescue dog and the subject of her new awesome book, Charlie Bear. I heard stories firsthand as she and her husband went through that difficult, but rewarding challenge of taking in a pet with "issues."

Hey, I've got issues myself so I can relate. Just get me on the subject of elevators and you'll find out. But I digress...

BJ's book, CHARLIE BEAR: What a Headstrong Rescue Dog Taught Me about Life, Love, and Second Chances, just released a few days and it is AMAZING. I highly recommend that you check it out.

Here's a synopsis:

When B.J. Taylor first read about rescue dog Charlie Bear, she gazed at his photograph and knew right away he was the dog for her. She just hoped her husband, Roger, would agree. Thankfully, he did, and in the subsequent year, both B.J. and Roger soon discovered that Charlie Bear was brought into their world for a very special reason-to teach them about life, love, and second chances. Charlie Bear shares an intimate look at the first year in the life of a dog nearly labeled "unadoptable" by his foster mother due to his long list of behavioral issues. As he begins his new life, Charlie Bear ferociously guards his food and toys, throws temper tantrums, and is sensitive to touch. Although B.J. doubts their sanity in adopting Charlie Bear after he repeatedly attacks their other dog, Rex, she is determined to make it work for the sake of her husband, who has fallen in love. But when B.J.'s world begins to fall apart, she shares how time, patience, and faith helped her realize that Charlie Bear was not the only one who needed a second chance-she did, too. Charlie Bear offers a loving tribute to a rescue dog that eventually sheds his headstrong ways, becomes a loving member of a family, and ultimately changes three lives forever.

And here's what some other people have to say about the book:

“What a gift and privilege it is to witness the adorable Charlie Bear morph from an unwanted, issue-ladened orphan to a beloved, human rescuer under the loving care of B.J Taylor and her family. What a fabulous story—and I know stories!"—Jennifer Quasha, co-author of
Chicken Soup for the Soul: My Dog's Life and My Cat's Life    

“An endearingly straightforward tale of a dog and the love he inspires.”—Ptolemy Tompkins, author of The Divine Life of Animals; Contributing Editor, Guideposts; Senior Contributing Editor, Angels on Earth    

"As a lifelong advocate for the humane treatment of animals—and the founder/owner of A Place To Bark, a no-kill, foster and adoption rescue non-profit—I wholeheartedly support the mission and spirit of B.J. Taylor and her CHARLIE BEAR. I have known all types of pets; yet the headstrong ones like Charlie, which B.J. depicts so accurately and engagingly, have always seemed to capture my heart. And the fact that Charlie inspires so much love—and ultimately turns the tables and rescues 'his' humans!—makes this book a must-read for dog lovers across the globe!"—Bernie Berlin, Founder, A Place To Bark

As far as I'm concerned, all I have to do is look at that lost little guy on the cover and I want to read the book. If you're interested, you can purchase the book here, here and here.

Also, coming up this week:
TOMORROW: Cover reveal for WAITING FOR MIDNIGHT, my soon-to-be released ebook short story collection!!

FRIDAY: Book review for SHADOW AND BONE by Leigh Bardugo

AND I’m running a CONTEST this week.

RULES: Make a comment on any of this week’s posts, share a link on either Facebook, Twitter or your blog, and you’ll be entered to win a $25 gift certificate from Amazon. Also, you must include your email address so I can contact the winner.