Two Good Dogs: A Novel – A Heartfelt Journey of Healing and Connection
When I first picked up Two Good Dogs: A Novel by Susan Wilson, I was drawn by a simple premise: a single mother, a widower, and two rescue dogs finding love and healing in the beautiful backdrop of the Berkshire Hills. As someone who firmly believes that dogs know the way to our hearts, I was eager to see how Wilson would weave this story of resilience, grief, and transformation.
This novel continues the journey begun in One Good Dog, featuring Adam March and his beloved pit bull, Chance. However, it quickly expands to include Skye Mitchell, a single mother who has poured her heart and savings into reviving the struggling LakeView Hotel. As Skye struggles to connect with her withdrawn daughter, Cody—who harbors a heartbreaking secret—she finds unexpected comfort in her budding friendship with Adam. Cody’s journey is especially impactful; her internal battles make her an incredibly relatable character, mirroring the struggles many teens face today.
Wilson excels at capturing the complexities of human emotions, especially the profound connections we share with our pets. Adam’s grieving heart begins to mend with the help of Chance, and it’s in these moments that the dual perspectives of humans and dogs truly shine. Wilson artfully alternates between human dialogue and the insightful thoughts of the dogs, making it an engaging read. One moment that took my breath away was when Chance reflects on his loyalty to Adam, feeling lost yet determined to help his owner heal. It’s a poignant reminder of how our furry companions understand us in ways we sometimes overlook.
The pacing of the story flows naturally, with a perfect blend of tension and warmth. Each chapter left me anticipating what would come next, with Adam and Skye’s tentative relationship offering both suspense and comfort. As the plot unfolds, themes of redemption, the importance of community, and the healing power of love—both human and canine—deeply resonate.
I found myself emotionally invested in the characters’ journeys, with moments that brought both laughter and tears. Readers rave about the emotional weight of the story, with one declaring, "it will make you cry, will make you laugh," highlighting its ability to evoke a spectrum of feelings that linger long after the last page is turned.
If there’s a criticism to be found, it lies in the occasional predictability of the plot, but Wilson’s strength in character development overshadows this minor flaw. The book feels like a warm hug on a chilly day—comforting and fulfilling.
Two Good Dogs: A Novel is a must-read for anyone who cherishes tales of second chances, particularly for dog lovers who appreciate the subtle ways our pets impact our lives. It’s a feel-good story with substantial insights into healing, connection, and family dynamics. This book left me not only grateful for my own rescue dogs but also inspired to embrace the messiness of life. Whether you’re a parent, a dog owner, or simply someone seeking a heartfelt read, this novel has something to offer everyone.
In the end, Wilson’s narrative is not just about love for our canine companions but also about how, through our trials, we can discover a strength we didn’t know we had—often with the help of those furry friends who see into our souls. If you’re looking for a story that tugs at your heartstrings and leaves you feeling hopeful, look no further than Two Good Dogs.
You can find Two Good Dogs: A Novel here >>