An Enchanting Christmas Canine Tale: The Twelve Dogs of Christmas by Susan Wiggs – Book Review

“The Twelve Dogs of Christmas” is a heartwarming and enchanting tale that beautifully intertwines Brenda Malloy’s journey of healing, the festive magic of Avalon, and the transformative power of love, all set against the backdrop of a delightful canine-filled Christmas adventure. This is my first book I’ve read written by this author but it certainly won’t be my last.

From The Publisher:

Brenda Malloy wants nothing to do with Christmas ever again. Last year, Brenda and her husband rushed their beloved dog Tim to the emergency vet on Christmas eve. The good news: Tim survived after the vet cleared the obstruction—a pair of women’s lace undies. The bad news: the undies were not Brenda’s.

A year after the breakup, Brenda has put her life back together. She’s trained for a marathon, is writing a children’s novel, and she’s found purpose and healing as a volunteer with a dog rescue organization in Houston, Texas. The rescue partners with a program in Avalon, New York—a small, snowy town deep in the Catskills. Now Brenda is arranging the transport of rescued dogs from Houston to Avalon—just in time for a merry Christmas with their forever families. Brenda’s friends worry about her driving a van two thousand miles with twelve dogs in crates, but she shrugs off their concern. How hard can it be? She knows the way, and she’s just looking to escape the Christmas overload for a while.

But a blinding snowstorm, an escaped mutt, and a life-saving encounter with Adam Bellamy—a single dad and paramedic—means Brenda has to stay in Avalon longer than she planned. As she drops off each precious pup at their new homes, some of the comfort and joy of the season begins to creep up on Brenda despite her determination to avoid the holidays. Perhaps you can bring Christmas into your heart after all…if you have the right furry friends to guide the way.

My Thoughts:

“The Twelve Dogs of Christmas” invites readers into Brenda Malloy’s journey of healing and rediscovery. Wiggs skillfully navigates the delicate balance between heartache and hope, infusing the narrative with a mix of humor, romance, and festive cheer. Brenda’s resilience shines as she embraces positive changes in the aftermath of her husband’s infidelity, turning her life around by training for a marathon and finding purpose in volunteering with a dog rescue organization.

The story unfolds as Brenda embarks on a mission to transport rescued dogs from Houston to Avalon, a snowy town in the Catskills. The vivid descriptions of Avalon’s community and its holiday traditions create a charming backdrop, immersing readers in the magic of the season. The author’s attention to detail brings the town to life, making it feel like a place readers would want to visit.

The dogs, with their endearing personalities and heartwarming stories, play a central role in the narrative. As a dog lover, you’ll appreciate how their presence adds depth to the story and serves as a catalyst for Brenda’s emotional journey. The bonds formed between Brenda and the rescued pups contribute to the overall warmth and appeal of the narrative.

The romance between Brenda and Adam unfolds organically, adding a sweet and tender layer to the plot. Adam’s son, with his irresistible cuteness, becomes an additional source of joy in the story. The development of Brenda’s character is particularly well-crafted, showcasing her transformation as she learns to trust and open her heart to love once again.

Sophie Amoss’ engaging performance in the audiobook format enhances the overall experience. Her expressive narration captures the nuances of the characters and the emotional depth of the story, making it a highly recommended choice for those who enjoy audiobooks.

In summary, “The Twelve Dogs of Christmas” is a delightful blend of heartwarming moments, festive charm, and a touch of romance. It’s a story that resonates with themes of resilience, second chances, and the unconditional love that dogs bring into our lives.

A Similar Book I’d Recommend:

The Wishing Bridge by Viola Shipman