The Dogs of Venice is a beautiful story about love, loss and finding yourself again. It’s a novella so it is a very quick read, even though you don’t ever want it to end. It transports you to Venice, Italy and all its beauty where dogs are allowed to run wild. It’s where one man who is mourning the loss of his marriage will meet a dog which will change his life forever. Written by the author of The Editor and The Guncle, Steven Rowley, it has his humor, charm and life lessons all bundled into an uplifting tale.
When Paul’s marriage of five years ends in a shocking divorce which he never saw coming, he becomes a shell of himself. Not really understanding what he did wrong, he decides to go on a planned Christmas trip they were both going on to Venice by himself. Although nervous as he had never done something like this, he begins the journey alone to basically spite his soon to be ex.
But when he gets there and sees the magical city in front of him, he tries to make the most of his time there. Not everything goes his way, and he feels extremely awkward. But he suddenly sees dogs roaming around the city relaxed and unharmed and enjoying themselves. He particularly discovers one dog who has a routine and confidence as he interacts with people. Paul begins looking forward to seeing him.
At one point he loses track of the dog and is unable to find him. Desperate, he looks for him. While looking he meets a few funny, quirky characters, has experiences and some uncomfortable encounters he’s not sure how to handle, but through it all he begins to find himself and a strength he never knew existed.
Rowley’s story, The Dogs of Venice, although short is pact with wisdom, strength, emotion and evolution. As for the dog? Well, you’ll just have to find out what happens!
Thank you #NetGalley #G.P.Putman’sSons #StevenRowley #TheDogsofVenice for the advanced copy.
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