3.5 Stars
This book explores a number of environmental, social, and political issues.
In 1985, Trevor Westmore, a former veterinarian, is released from Leavenworth Penitentiary after serving a 25-year sentence for murder. A guard gifts him a German Shepherd puppy named Libby. The two drive from Kansas to California where Trevor’s parents live. He buys a house and opens up a dog kennel. He meets Laura Fenway, the local veterinarian, and is immediately attracted to her. But will she want to have anything to do with him once she learns about his past? Then Trevor learns that Laura also has secrets which could jeopardize his long-awaited freedom.
Trevor is a likeable character. When the details of his crime are revealed, it’s obvious that his harm was unintentional, though he was certainly selfish and naive. Even before his prison time, he had a difficult life because of his military experiences. He struggles with adapting to a new world after having been incarcerated for almost half his life. I could not help but become a cheerleader for Trevor as he takes positive steps forward. Because I was invested in his future, I found the ending unsatisfying because of its lack of closure.
The novel certainly shows the bond between humans and dogs. Because Libby is dependent on him for her needs, Trevor is forced to act responsibly. Providing her with a routine gives him a routine as well. For example, he knows that a puppy needs to be exposed to new situations so, even though he doesn’t want to, he takes her for a walk. If he feels depressed or full of self-pity, Libby’s unconditional love and trust draws him out of his emotional slump. She definitely eases his re-entry into society by connecting him with other people.
A number of issues are examined: nuclear testing and its long-term effects on human health, chemical spraying in agriculture and its effects on animal health, the military’s abandonment of servicemen harmed during their service, the penal system, animal testing and abuse, and the difference between law and justice. I think that too many issues are touched on because some of them overshadow the plot and slow down pace. Certainly the discussion of crop spraying and its effects on mammalian mortality rates goes on and on. A focus on one or two subjects would be preferable.
I enjoyed the first part of the novel: Trevor’s time in prison, military service, and the events leading up to his murder charge. The romance element interested me less, especially once the animal rescue missions are introduced. With regard to the latter, readers need to be forewarned that animal abuse is described in detail, detail which will be upsetting to everyone but especially animal lovers.
The book will leave readers unimpressed by human nature because it depicts many examples of stupidity, self-centredness, selfishness, short-sightedness, moral bankruptcy, and cruelty. I wish for a more positive ending than the arrival of dawn.
Note: I received an eARC from the publisher via NetGalley.
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