What do you think?
Rate this book
The Stray Dogs
9 hours, 57 minutes
THE BRAND-NEW, FEEL-GOOD LISTEN ABOUT FRIENDSHIP, OUR CANINE COMPANIONS, AND THE JOY OF SECOND CHANCES FROM TWO-MILLION-COPY BESTSELLING AUTHOR RUTH HOGAN
They say you can't teach an old dog new tricks, but Desmond and Leona are about to find out that it's never too late to start living your dreams . . .
Since his marriage ended, Desmond Leaks has been stuck in a rut. But living alone does have some upsides—for one, there's no one to tell him that he's "not allowed" chocolate spread on his toast.
And for Leona Lennox, a fresh start might just mean she can finally open that rescue center for abandoned dogs she's always dreamed of. That's if she can learn to let people in occasionally—and accept help.
Take this Desmond guy—he's so nice that he's offering to get his old band back together to play some fundraising gigs for the rescue center. If only Leona could say yes, just this once . . . The Stray Dogs might actually be decent, right?
Lost dogs and lost people find unexpected happiness in this gorgeously uplifting story filled with Ruth Hogan's trademark wit and warmth, perfect for fans of Ruth Jones, Mike Gayle, Graham Norton, and Beth Morrey.
THE BRAND-NEW, FEEL-GOOD LISTEN ABOUT FRIENDSHIP, OUR CANINE COMPANIONS, AND THE JOY OF SECOND CHANCES FROM TWO-MILLION-COPY BESTSELLING AUTHOR RUTH HOGAN
They say you can't teach an old dog new tricks, but Desmond and Leona are about to find out that it's never too late to start living your dreams . . .
Since his marriage ended, Desmond Leaks has been stuck in a rut. But living alone does have some upsides—for one, there's no one to tell him that he's "not allowed" chocolate spread on his toast.
And for Leona Lennox, a fresh start might just mean she can finally open that rescue center for abandoned dogs she's always dreamed of. That's if she can learn to let people in occasionally—and accept help.
Take this Desmond guy—he's so nice that he's offering to get his old band back together to play some fundraising gigs for the rescue center. If only Leona could say yes, just this once . . . The Stray Dogs might actually be decent, right?
Lost dogs and lost people find unexpected happiness in this gorgeously uplifting story filled with Ruth Hogan's trademark wit and warmth, perfect for fans of Ruth Jones, Mike Gayle, Graham Norton, and Beth Morrey.
Audiobook
Published September 22, 2026
About the author
Ruth Hogan
14 books2,883 followersI was born in the house where my parents still live in Bedford: my sister was so pleased to have a sibling that she threw a thrupenny bit at me. As a child I read everything I could lay my hands on: The Moomintrolls, A Hundred Million Francs, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, the back of cereal packets and gravestones. I was mad about dogs and horses, but didn't like daddy-long-legs or sugar in my tea.
I studied English and Drama at Goldsmiths College which was brilliant, but then I came home and got a 'proper' job. I worked for ten years in a senior local government position (I was definitely a square peg in a round hole, but it paid the bills and mortgage) before a car accident left me unable to work full-time and convinced me to start writing seriously. It was going well, but then in 2012 I got cancer, which was bloody inconvenient but precipitated an exciting hair journey from bald to a peroxide blonde Annie Lennox crop. When chemo kept me up all night I passed the time writing and the eventual result was The Keeper of Lost Things.
I live in a chaotic Victorian house with an assortment of rescue dogs and my long-suffering partner (who has very recently become my husband - so I can't be that bad!) I am a magpie, always collecting treasures, and a huge John Betjeman fan. My favourite word is 'antimacassar' and I still like reading gravestones.
I studied English and Drama at Goldsmiths College which was brilliant, but then I came home and got a 'proper' job. I worked for ten years in a senior local government position (I was definitely a square peg in a round hole, but it paid the bills and mortgage) before a car accident left me unable to work full-time and convinced me to start writing seriously. It was going well, but then in 2012 I got cancer, which was bloody inconvenient but precipitated an exciting hair journey from bald to a peroxide blonde Annie Lennox crop. When chemo kept me up all night I passed the time writing and the eventual result was The Keeper of Lost Things.
I live in a chaotic Victorian house with an assortment of rescue dogs and my long-suffering partner (who has very recently become my husband - so I can't be that bad!) I am a magpie, always collecting treasures, and a huge John Betjeman fan. My favourite word is 'antimacassar' and I still like reading gravestones.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Stray Dogs by Ruth Hogan
Narrated by Elizabeth Knowelden
Usually I will avoid stories about animals and with animals on the cover of a book because my heart can't take bad things happening to animals. Yes, I read all kinds of human hardship, real and fictional, get down and dirty with bad things happening to humans, but when it comes to animals, I just can't take it. Still, this story brings out so much good happening for animals, that I've glad I picked up this book, even though we have to face the sad in the life of the animals, too.
Leona Lennox gives up her vet practice as she is burned out and wants to move on. But she isn't moving on from animals and instead has bought a house and property in a new location and that property is going to be where Leo will be opening a dog rescue operation. This is a huge undertaking since Leo is giving up her successful vet career, giving up everything from her past (except her best girlfriend) and setting up where she knows no one. It doesn't help that Leo is an introvert who really doesn't want to talk to people, She's tired of people, mad at most people, and just wants to help the few dogs she can help to have a better life or even a life at all.
The story relies heavily on movies, music, and TV for very cute dog names and I loved hearing what each of the dogs we'd meet is named. There is also a parrot, a donkey and a goat so I'm right at home with this crowd. But I'm also very familiar with how horrible dogs and other animals are treated and that part of the story broke my heart. One of the dogs we meet is called Dog and it hurt to know all that he goes through to get to the end of the story. Almost all these dogs are at risk of losing their lives until Leo and others are able to give them the love they deserve.
We also meet plumber Desmond Leaks and he's still reeling from his wife leaving him. He's a really good guy and his loneliness now has him yearning for his younger days in a band. For Leo to get her dog rescue off the ground and keep it going, she's going to need financial help and Desmond rashly suggests his former band earn money at charity gigs for the rescue. Except Desmond doesn't want to include the charismatic former lead singer of their group and Desmond, nice guy that he is, doesn't really have the personality to be a lead singer.
It seems many of the characters in this story need to change to get more out of life. A few people get told off a little, some get told off a lot, but when people come together for the good of the dogs my heart soars. The dogs are so cute, so "dog", and I love looking at the cover of the book and seeing the dogs we meet. The narration is very good and I'm so glad I was able to listen to this story.
Publication September 22, 2026
Thank you to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for this ARC
Narrated by Elizabeth Knowelden
Usually I will avoid stories about animals and with animals on the cover of a book because my heart can't take bad things happening to animals. Yes, I read all kinds of human hardship, real and fictional, get down and dirty with bad things happening to humans, but when it comes to animals, I just can't take it. Still, this story brings out so much good happening for animals, that I've glad I picked up this book, even though we have to face the sad in the life of the animals, too.
Leona Lennox gives up her vet practice as she is burned out and wants to move on. But she isn't moving on from animals and instead has bought a house and property in a new location and that property is going to be where Leo will be opening a dog rescue operation. This is a huge undertaking since Leo is giving up her successful vet career, giving up everything from her past (except her best girlfriend) and setting up where she knows no one. It doesn't help that Leo is an introvert who really doesn't want to talk to people, She's tired of people, mad at most people, and just wants to help the few dogs she can help to have a better life or even a life at all.
The story relies heavily on movies, music, and TV for very cute dog names and I loved hearing what each of the dogs we'd meet is named. There is also a parrot, a donkey and a goat so I'm right at home with this crowd. But I'm also very familiar with how horrible dogs and other animals are treated and that part of the story broke my heart. One of the dogs we meet is called Dog and it hurt to know all that he goes through to get to the end of the story. Almost all these dogs are at risk of losing their lives until Leo and others are able to give them the love they deserve.
We also meet plumber Desmond Leaks and he's still reeling from his wife leaving him. He's a really good guy and his loneliness now has him yearning for his younger days in a band. For Leo to get her dog rescue off the ground and keep it going, she's going to need financial help and Desmond rashly suggests his former band earn money at charity gigs for the rescue. Except Desmond doesn't want to include the charismatic former lead singer of their group and Desmond, nice guy that he is, doesn't really have the personality to be a lead singer.
It seems many of the characters in this story need to change to get more out of life. A few people get told off a little, some get told off a lot, but when people come together for the good of the dogs my heart soars. The dogs are so cute, so "dog", and I love looking at the cover of the book and seeing the dogs we meet. The narration is very good and I'm so glad I was able to listen to this story.
Publication September 22, 2026
Thank you to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for this ARC
October 6, 2026
4 ⭐️s
Burnt out and ready for a change, Leo Lennox leaves her veterinary practice in the city and moves to the small country town of Fiddlers Green to start a dog rescue center. 🐾
I really enjoyed this book and getting to know the residents of Fiddlers Green. Their determination to help Leo and the stray dogs was so heartwarming. Side characters can add so much to a story, and this book had some great ones!
While mostly uplifting and humorous, there were a few moments that made me tear up and others that made me angry at the horrendous ways humans can treat animals. As an animal lover, this story just spoke to me. I especially loved the multiple POVs, including one from Dog, a stray simply trying to find his person.
Was it predictable? Absolutely. Did I care? Not one bit. This was exactly the kind of heartwarming read I needed, and I highly recommend it especially if you are a dog lover!
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Elizabeth Knowelden, who did an excellent job, especially when switching between male and female voices.
Now available! My thanks for Dreamscape Media and the author via NetGalley for my ALC. 🎧
Burnt out and ready for a change, Leo Lennox leaves her veterinary practice in the city and moves to the small country town of Fiddlers Green to start a dog rescue center. 🐾
I really enjoyed this book and getting to know the residents of Fiddlers Green. Their determination to help Leo and the stray dogs was so heartwarming. Side characters can add so much to a story, and this book had some great ones!
While mostly uplifting and humorous, there were a few moments that made me tear up and others that made me angry at the horrendous ways humans can treat animals. As an animal lover, this story just spoke to me. I especially loved the multiple POVs, including one from Dog, a stray simply trying to find his person.
Was it predictable? Absolutely. Did I care? Not one bit. This was exactly the kind of heartwarming read I needed, and I highly recommend it especially if you are a dog lover!
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Elizabeth Knowelden, who did an excellent job, especially when switching between male and female voices.
Now available! My thanks for Dreamscape Media and the author via NetGalley for my ALC. 🎧
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Stray Dogs follows Leona "Leo" Lennox, a vet who steps away from her past to open an animal shelter in a charming small town. Along the way, she crosses paths with a delightful cast of local characters who quickly capture your heart.
Oh, your heart will ache for 'Dog' so deeply.
If you are a dog lover, a fan of second chances, someone who appreciates music, or someone who loves emotional, heartwarming stories, this book is for you! It’s packed with small-town warmth, big-hearted connections, and sweet moments that will have you tearing up and feeling ALL the feelings.
"If you want a dog that will love you unconditionally and be loyal to you until the day it dies, the best breed to get is called a 'rescued.'"
Thank you to the publisher for the ALC.
Oh, your heart will ache for 'Dog' so deeply.
If you are a dog lover, a fan of second chances, someone who appreciates music, or someone who loves emotional, heartwarming stories, this book is for you! It’s packed with small-town warmth, big-hearted connections, and sweet moments that will have you tearing up and feeling ALL the feelings.
"If you want a dog that will love you unconditionally and be loyal to you until the day it dies, the best breed to get is called a 'rescued.'"
Thank you to the publisher for the ALC.
September 25, 2026
Oh, I absolutely loved this one. It had so much of what I love in a great story. New found friends/family, old reconnecting friends, a little bit of romance and
a lot
of doggies!
The book summary pretty much lays out the two primary storylines of Leo leaving her vet job in the city and starting a dog rescue out in the country and Desmond getting his band back together to raise money for the rescue. There is also another storyline of a stray dog, Dog, who has spent most of his life on the streets, with the exception of a few brief periods in one home or another, but always ending back out on the street, which is where he is now, wandering around trying to survive on scraps he can scrounge up or beg for.
From the get-go, it’s hard not to root for Leo, who is all about the doggies and what an adorable bunch of fur babies she has collected pretty quickly. There’s Goose, a Collie puppy Leo saved from being euthanized when his owner came in and wanted to put him down because Goose bit him because the owner was abusing him. Then there is Maverick, a blind Great Dane whose owner had to give him up because she was dying. There was Sherbert and her puppies, Toffee and Fudge. who came from an illegal breeder. Last, but not least, there was a bonded pair, Jerry and Margo, a Jack Russell and a Corgi, respectively, whose owner was ill and had to be sent to a care home.
This was such a wonderful story where the doggies made me laugh and cry and a few passages that made me want to string up some despicable people too. I can read about all the murder and mayhem in human stories, but animal abuse tears me up. I have been known to DNF a book simply because of a scene depicting animal abuse. As a long-time dog mama, people who abuse animals deserve to be treated the same way.
Anyway, I loved the character development of many of the characters throughout the story. The pacing was very steady throughout the story too. The storyline was very interesting, at least to me, definitely my kind of story. The writing was wonderful too. Once again, I love a story that can make me laugh one moment and bring tears to me the next. I’m looking at an overall rating of 4.7 that I will be rounding up to a 4.75star review. I want to thank NetGalley, Dreamscape Media for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #DreamscapeMedia #TheStrayDogs
The book summary pretty much lays out the two primary storylines of Leo leaving her vet job in the city and starting a dog rescue out in the country and Desmond getting his band back together to raise money for the rescue. There is also another storyline of a stray dog, Dog, who has spent most of his life on the streets, with the exception of a few brief periods in one home or another, but always ending back out on the street, which is where he is now, wandering around trying to survive on scraps he can scrounge up or beg for.
From the get-go, it’s hard not to root for Leo, who is all about the doggies and what an adorable bunch of fur babies she has collected pretty quickly. There’s Goose, a Collie puppy Leo saved from being euthanized when his owner came in and wanted to put him down because Goose bit him because the owner was abusing him. Then there is Maverick, a blind Great Dane whose owner had to give him up because she was dying. There was Sherbert and her puppies, Toffee and Fudge. who came from an illegal breeder. Last, but not least, there was a bonded pair, Jerry and Margo, a Jack Russell and a Corgi, respectively, whose owner was ill and had to be sent to a care home.
This was such a wonderful story where the doggies made me laugh and cry and a few passages that made me want to string up some despicable people too. I can read about all the murder and mayhem in human stories, but animal abuse tears me up. I have been known to DNF a book simply because of a scene depicting animal abuse. As a long-time dog mama, people who abuse animals deserve to be treated the same way.
Anyway, I loved the character development of many of the characters throughout the story. The pacing was very steady throughout the story too. The storyline was very interesting, at least to me, definitely my kind of story. The writing was wonderful too. Once again, I love a story that can make me laugh one moment and bring tears to me the next. I’m looking at an overall rating of 4.7 that I will be rounding up to a 4.75star review. I want to thank NetGalley, Dreamscape Media for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #DreamscapeMedia #TheStrayDogs
May 31, 2026
Dog has had a chequered past and it seems yet again he’s on the look out for HIS person.
Plumber Desmond is newly divorced and stuck in a bit of a rut if truth be told, but, as his happy customers will tell you he’’ll always go the extra mile.
Vet Leona Lennox is leaving her current job, but she needs to get through her last day first and it’s a bit of a sad bruiser. However, fresh starts and all that and in a few days time she moves into a wreck of a house known as Applejack Farm in Fiddlers Green, with collie Goose, once upon a time, Bob, but that’s another story. What Leo would really like to do is to open a rescue home for unwanted dogs which she tells Desmond once they meet when he offers his services as a plumber. He also suggests some fundraising via his old band who he renames The Stray Dogs, however, their former a front man Darcus McGuire is proving hard to track down.
There’s no doubt this is a feel good novel which is Ruth Hogan‘s trademark. It has gentle humour and lovely characters, some of whom have cheesy surnames but which do make me smile. All the characters are likeable bar one, but that person will probably get their comeuppance if warm hearted hairdresser Vera has anything to do with it. She is wonderful and though it’s hard to pick a favourite character, it’s probably her as she’s rarely fazed and her salon is at the very heart of this delightful place.
As for the dogs, well, this dog lover is hugely charmed by Goose, Maverick and of course, Dog whose life has been hard, I feel the need to mention Die Hard the absolutely hilarious foulmouthed parrot who sure makes me laugh. On a serious note, the author via Leo, makes excellent points about dog ownership and how ill prepared some people are, which becomes very apparent during the Covid pandemic.
Whilst there’s no doubt I really enjoy the novel, it’s perfect for dog lovers and it’s highly entertaining, there’s quite a bit of repetition to reinforce points which I’m not quite so keen on. However, if you’re in the market for a heartwarming, easy read novel which centres on a wonderful community, it’s animals, especially the dogs then this one is for you.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Atlantic Books, Corvus for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.
Plumber Desmond is newly divorced and stuck in a bit of a rut if truth be told, but, as his happy customers will tell you he’’ll always go the extra mile.
Vet Leona Lennox is leaving her current job, but she needs to get through her last day first and it’s a bit of a sad bruiser. However, fresh starts and all that and in a few days time she moves into a wreck of a house known as Applejack Farm in Fiddlers Green, with collie Goose, once upon a time, Bob, but that’s another story. What Leo would really like to do is to open a rescue home for unwanted dogs which she tells Desmond once they meet when he offers his services as a plumber. He also suggests some fundraising via his old band who he renames The Stray Dogs, however, their former a front man Darcus McGuire is proving hard to track down.
There’s no doubt this is a feel good novel which is Ruth Hogan‘s trademark. It has gentle humour and lovely characters, some of whom have cheesy surnames but which do make me smile. All the characters are likeable bar one, but that person will probably get their comeuppance if warm hearted hairdresser Vera has anything to do with it. She is wonderful and though it’s hard to pick a favourite character, it’s probably her as she’s rarely fazed and her salon is at the very heart of this delightful place.
As for the dogs, well, this dog lover is hugely charmed by Goose, Maverick and of course, Dog whose life has been hard, I feel the need to mention Die Hard the absolutely hilarious foulmouthed parrot who sure makes me laugh. On a serious note, the author via Leo, makes excellent points about dog ownership and how ill prepared some people are, which becomes very apparent during the Covid pandemic.
Whilst there’s no doubt I really enjoy the novel, it’s perfect for dog lovers and it’s highly entertaining, there’s quite a bit of repetition to reinforce points which I’m not quite so keen on. However, if you’re in the market for a heartwarming, easy read novel which centres on a wonderful community, it’s animals, especially the dogs then this one is for you.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Atlantic Books, Corvus for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.
September 15, 2026
I have enjoyed all of Ruth Hogan’s books and this one is no exception. The tale of Leo the vet, who moves from the city with the intention of opening a dog rescue centre, the people she meets, and the stories of the dogs she rescues. An easy heartwarming read.
October 1, 2026
I listened to the audiobook on this one! What a lovely tale it is!! 🐕
Leona Lennox is a vet who finds herself stepping away from her practice and move to a small town and open an animal shelter. She is leaving everything from her past and is determined to make this work. She is focused on animals! She does not want to bother with people. However, life has a few curves to throw her!
We meet meet a quirky and endearing cast of characters (most of them!) along the way. Desmond used to be in a band. He is a nice guy, and misses the days of playing with his bandmates. In order to help Leona, and find his music again, he offers to get his former band together, except for the lead singe to play benefits to help Leona raise the funds she needs.
There is a bit of drama between the residents, and also tension. However, they all come together to help Leona build this shelter for the animals. Many find that they needed a little project or change to get back to the joy they had in life. The shelter becomes the starting point of bringing life back to the dogs, and the community.
The stories shared about the background of each dog is heartbreaking. Most of these dogs are at a point of possibly losing their life, yet Lepna and the crew work relentlessly to bring love and rescue to the furry crew.
A heartwarming story full of second chances, community and small town vibes- this story will find a spot in your heart and leave you wanting to pet a dog, go rescue a dog, then meet at a park and enjoy the company of other animal living humans!
The narration was really good in this one!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the audiobook. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Leona Lennox is a vet who finds herself stepping away from her practice and move to a small town and open an animal shelter. She is leaving everything from her past and is determined to make this work. She is focused on animals! She does not want to bother with people. However, life has a few curves to throw her!
We meet meet a quirky and endearing cast of characters (most of them!) along the way. Desmond used to be in a band. He is a nice guy, and misses the days of playing with his bandmates. In order to help Leona, and find his music again, he offers to get his former band together, except for the lead singe to play benefits to help Leona raise the funds she needs.
There is a bit of drama between the residents, and also tension. However, they all come together to help Leona build this shelter for the animals. Many find that they needed a little project or change to get back to the joy they had in life. The shelter becomes the starting point of bringing life back to the dogs, and the community.
The stories shared about the background of each dog is heartbreaking. Most of these dogs are at a point of possibly losing their life, yet Lepna and the crew work relentlessly to bring love and rescue to the furry crew.
A heartwarming story full of second chances, community and small town vibes- this story will find a spot in your heart and leave you wanting to pet a dog, go rescue a dog, then meet at a park and enjoy the company of other animal living humans!
The narration was really good in this one!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the audiobook. This is my honest and voluntary review.
September 27, 2026
This book had all the feels. It will break your heart, melt it, make you laugh, and occasionally make you want to scream, but somehow, it still leaves you with that warm feeling of having witnessed something really lovely.
The Stray Dogs is a story about people and dogs learning to trust, finding each other, and getting second chances. I really enjoyed how many different stories were woven together, and I was surprised by how invested I became in all of them. Leo, Dog, Goose, Die Hard and the rest of the cast each brought something different to the story, and I loved seeing how their lives slowly intertwined.
One thing I loved was seeing characters in their 30s and 40s having such an active role in the story. I feel like we don't always get to see enough of that in fiction, so I really appreciated being able to follow characters who already have their own lives, problems, friendships, and baggage. I loved seeing how their relationships developed and how they each had their own way of dealing with one another. And having all of this set against a small-town atmosphere made it even better. The beauty salon was such a fun little part of the book, especially with all the town gossip being shared there. It added to that cozy, close-knit community feeling that I really enjoyed and made the town itself feel like an important part of the story.
Some of the storylines were genuinely heartbreaking, especially when it came to the dogs and what some of them had been through. Whether they had been abandoned, mistreated, killed, or exploited and kept in captivity, each of their stories left an impact on me. I think one of the strongest messages of the book is the importance of treating animals with kindness and not causing them harm simply because they are vulnerable and unable to defend themselves. As much as I loved these parts of the story, they also made this a difficult listen at times. If you're a dog lover, keep some tissues nearby. There were definitely moments when my heart couldn't take much more. But there was plenty of humor and warmth too, which kept the story from becoming overwhelmingly sad. The characters were quirky and full of personality, and I especially loved how the dogs weren't simply there as background—they were such an important part of the emotional heart of the story.
Since I listened to this as an audiobook, I also have to mention the narration because it was one of my favorites in a while. Elizabeth Knowelden did such a wonderful job giving each character their own personality and making the different POVs easy to follow. At some points, it genuinely felt like I was listening to a group of people actually interacting with one another rather than one narrator reading multiple characters. She really brought the emotional moments to life, and I think listening to this story made me connect with the characters even more.
I don't have anything else to add about this beautiful story, other than to say that I absolutely recommend it. And if you have the chance, definitely go for the audiobook—the narration was sensational and made the whole experience even more enjoyable. I really loved how it reminded me that sometimes both people and animals just need someone willing to give them another chance.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for providing me with an ALC. You really gave me a heartbreaking experience, but also one full of hope for a better world for both animals and people.
The Stray Dogs is a story about people and dogs learning to trust, finding each other, and getting second chances. I really enjoyed how many different stories were woven together, and I was surprised by how invested I became in all of them. Leo, Dog, Goose, Die Hard and the rest of the cast each brought something different to the story, and I loved seeing how their lives slowly intertwined.
One thing I loved was seeing characters in their 30s and 40s having such an active role in the story. I feel like we don't always get to see enough of that in fiction, so I really appreciated being able to follow characters who already have their own lives, problems, friendships, and baggage. I loved seeing how their relationships developed and how they each had their own way of dealing with one another. And having all of this set against a small-town atmosphere made it even better. The beauty salon was such a fun little part of the book, especially with all the town gossip being shared there. It added to that cozy, close-knit community feeling that I really enjoyed and made the town itself feel like an important part of the story.
Some of the storylines were genuinely heartbreaking, especially when it came to the dogs and what some of them had been through. Whether they had been abandoned, mistreated, killed, or exploited and kept in captivity, each of their stories left an impact on me. I think one of the strongest messages of the book is the importance of treating animals with kindness and not causing them harm simply because they are vulnerable and unable to defend themselves. As much as I loved these parts of the story, they also made this a difficult listen at times. If you're a dog lover, keep some tissues nearby. There were definitely moments when my heart couldn't take much more. But there was plenty of humor and warmth too, which kept the story from becoming overwhelmingly sad. The characters were quirky and full of personality, and I especially loved how the dogs weren't simply there as background—they were such an important part of the emotional heart of the story.
Since I listened to this as an audiobook, I also have to mention the narration because it was one of my favorites in a while. Elizabeth Knowelden did such a wonderful job giving each character their own personality and making the different POVs easy to follow. At some points, it genuinely felt like I was listening to a group of people actually interacting with one another rather than one narrator reading multiple characters. She really brought the emotional moments to life, and I think listening to this story made me connect with the characters even more.
I don't have anything else to add about this beautiful story, other than to say that I absolutely recommend it. And if you have the chance, definitely go for the audiobook—the narration was sensational and made the whole experience even more enjoyable. I really loved how it reminded me that sometimes both people and animals just need someone willing to give them another chance.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for providing me with an ALC. You really gave me a heartbreaking experience, but also one full of hope for a better world for both animals and people.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Having read some of Ruth Hogan’s previous novels and loved them. I wasn’t disappointed when I read her new novel The stray dogs.
Leo gives up her job and share of a veterinary practice in the city to move to the countryside to a village called Fiddlers Green to open a dog rescue centre. She was a bit hesitant at first to think what reception she would get from the residents. But surprisingly it went better that she thought. The local loved the idea and all of them offered her help to bring her dream alive except for one Mimi who owns one of the local beauty salons.
This is another heartwarming and uplifting read from author Faith Hogan and ideal if you are a dog lover. But still a lovey endearing read if you’re not. This is a story of second chances and making lifelong friendships and had great, likeable characters. I especially the character dog the things that he had to endure in his little life to find someone to love and care for him. It was so sweet.
I enjoyed this immensely so much I couldn’t put this down. I read it to the small hours of the morning. 5 stars from me.
Leo gives up her job and share of a veterinary practice in the city to move to the countryside to a village called Fiddlers Green to open a dog rescue centre. She was a bit hesitant at first to think what reception she would get from the residents. But surprisingly it went better that she thought. The local loved the idea and all of them offered her help to bring her dream alive except for one Mimi who owns one of the local beauty salons.
This is another heartwarming and uplifting read from author Faith Hogan and ideal if you are a dog lover. But still a lovey endearing read if you’re not. This is a story of second chances and making lifelong friendships and had great, likeable characters. I especially the character dog the things that he had to endure in his little life to find someone to love and care for him. It was so sweet.
I enjoyed this immensely so much I couldn’t put this down. I read it to the small hours of the morning. 5 stars from me.
September 20, 2026
Stray Dogs was ultimately a heartwarming story about Leona Lennox, aka Leo, who leaves her veterinarian practice, moves town, and dedicates herself to caring for animals who need a second chance. She is burned out, particularly because of the poor choices people made adopting animals during the Covid “damndemic.”
The town she moves to is full of a colorful and broad cast characters with their own drama and intertwining stories.
You also follow DOG, and the challenges Dog goes through to find his person. While mostly heartwarming, there are sad and vulnerable stories about dogs, that at times made the story sad. Overall, I recommend, specially if you love dogs, strong female characters, and enjoy a more cozy kind of read.
Thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ALC of this book in exchange for an honest review! All opinions and statements are my own
The town she moves to is full of a colorful and broad cast characters with their own drama and intertwining stories.
You also follow DOG, and the challenges Dog goes through to find his person. While mostly heartwarming, there are sad and vulnerable stories about dogs, that at times made the story sad. Overall, I recommend, specially if you love dogs, strong female characters, and enjoy a more cozy kind of read.
Thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ALC of this book in exchange for an honest review! All opinions and statements are my own
October 5, 2026
It's been some years since I last read Ruth Hogan.
The Stray Dogs has a large cast of characters, whose back stories we discover throughout the novel.
The main one is Leo Lennow, a vet who moves to a derelict farm in this town, with a dream to start a shelter for abandoned dogs. She's quite independent and incapable of asking and accepting help.
But the town people change her ways.
This was a cosy, endearing novel, even though it was predictable.
The Stray Dogs has a large cast of characters, whose back stories we discover throughout the novel.
The main one is Leo Lennow, a vet who moves to a derelict farm in this town, with a dream to start a shelter for abandoned dogs. She's quite independent and incapable of asking and accepting help.
But the town people change her ways.
This was a cosy, endearing novel, even though it was predictable.
September 5, 2026
I always love Ruth Hogan’s work, and The Stray Dogs is another beautiful example of why. She has such a wonderful way of taking sadness, complicated lives and people’s experiences and turning them into stories that feel both heartbreaking and endlessly hopeful.
Add dogs into the mix and, honestly, my heart didn’t stand a chance. 🐶💔 There’s so much sadness woven through these characters, but also kindness, connection and those little glimmers of hope that make Ruth’s books so special to me.
A gorgeous, emotional read about people, dogs and the unexpected ways they can help each other heal. Ruth Hogan has done it again. 5 stars from me.
Add dogs into the mix and, honestly, my heart didn’t stand a chance. 🐶💔 There’s so much sadness woven through these characters, but also kindness, connection and those little glimmers of hope that make Ruth’s books so special to me.
A gorgeous, emotional read about people, dogs and the unexpected ways they can help each other heal. Ruth Hogan has done it again. 5 stars from me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
While Ruth is an amazing author (as proven once again with this beautiful book), I am also fortunate enough to be able to call her a friend. I'm 10 chapters in and completely enamored; will update this review more once I've finished it. It's one of those books you can't wait to finish to see how it ends, but also one you can't bring yourself to put down. I've read far too late into the night these last days - worth foregoing a little sleep. This book is deeply personal to Ruth, given her penchant and history for rescuing the unwanted, the unloved. Her household has two beautiful boys who were both rescues and she truly has a heart for them. I've a feeling she'd adopt them all if she had the space. No surprise - this book is filled with characters that you feel you come to know intimately - Ruth has a knack for that. Every page that I read springs to life in my minds' eye - I can see the setting, the characters and feel the emotion and where the characters are in their particular journey. Dog is adorable - I cannot wait for his happily ever after. Lots of twists and turns already - go get this the day it hits the shelves.
September 22, 2026
Leonora Lennox, Leo to her friends, is clearly a very devoted vet, but is currently working her last day in the role. She is burnt out, and her final incredibly hard appointment in the day, confirms that her decision to quit was the correct one. She is pursuing her dream of moving more rurally, and would love to open a small dog rescue home.
This is a delightful read, with plenty that made me smile, but at the same time, Ruth Hogan always tugs on readers’ heart strings. The occasional details mentioning the history of the dogs made my heart feel so sad, and a little angry too. Our house has always been home to rescued fur babies, so I felt very involved, it really pulled at my emotions.
I liked Leo’s character greatly, I admired her passion for animals and their welfare. The supporting cast of characters around Leo are lovely, eclectic and highly entertaining. They felt genuine and fully fleshed out. The opening scene, and the chatter, in the hair salon had me smiling broadly. I’m sure these conversations happen frequently in real salons every day.
Elizabeth Knowelden narrates beautifully. The voices she gives to each of the characters works so well.
Ostensibly, this book is about Leo and the other residents of Fiddlers Green, but the true shining stars are the wonderful dogs, in all their furry glory. The small cameo roll of Die Hard was very entertaining too, though his backstory was also moving.
I completely agree with the author’s words, the very best breed of dog to adopt is “rescue”, I hope that Ruth doesn’t mind me adding that the very best breed of cat is “rescue” too. As I finish this cosy book, that made me feel warm inside, my rescue girl is purring on my lap, which seems very apt.
This is a delightful read, with plenty that made me smile, but at the same time, Ruth Hogan always tugs on readers’ heart strings. The occasional details mentioning the history of the dogs made my heart feel so sad, and a little angry too. Our house has always been home to rescued fur babies, so I felt very involved, it really pulled at my emotions.
I liked Leo’s character greatly, I admired her passion for animals and their welfare. The supporting cast of characters around Leo are lovely, eclectic and highly entertaining. They felt genuine and fully fleshed out. The opening scene, and the chatter, in the hair salon had me smiling broadly. I’m sure these conversations happen frequently in real salons every day.
Elizabeth Knowelden narrates beautifully. The voices she gives to each of the characters works so well.
Ostensibly, this book is about Leo and the other residents of Fiddlers Green, but the true shining stars are the wonderful dogs, in all their furry glory. The small cameo roll of Die Hard was very entertaining too, though his backstory was also moving.
I completely agree with the author’s words, the very best breed of dog to adopt is “rescue”, I hope that Ruth doesn’t mind me adding that the very best breed of cat is “rescue” too. As I finish this cosy book, that made me feel warm inside, my rescue girl is purring on my lap, which seems very apt.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
For God sake make sure you have full box of tissues next to you for this book.
The description promises a 'feel good listen', which in parts it is, it will even make you chuckle at times. But, if you are a true dog lover, there are many scenes that will have you ugly crying, snot bubbles and everything. I honestly thought I didn't have any triggers but, it seems that dogs being homeless / mistreated / struggling / living anything other than their best life is a MASSIVE trigger for me. Thankfully, for my poor heart and soul there is a happy ending.
As I mentioned, there are some funny parts including a rescue parrot called ‘Die Hard’ that likes to shout “Yippee Ki-yay mother fucker”
I do need make a special mention about the narrator. How she managed to read some of the saddest parts is beyond me, but she did, and she made them slightly more bearable with her soothing and compassionate voice. She was the perfect choice to deliver this rollercoaster of emotions.
Thank you to @ruthhogan @dreamscapemedia @netgalley and @elizabethknowelden for writing, producing and narrating this wonderful book.
The description promises a 'feel good listen', which in parts it is, it will even make you chuckle at times. But, if you are a true dog lover, there are many scenes that will have you ugly crying, snot bubbles and everything. I honestly thought I didn't have any triggers but, it seems that dogs being homeless / mistreated / struggling / living anything other than their best life is a MASSIVE trigger for me. Thankfully, for my poor heart and soul there is a happy ending.
As I mentioned, there are some funny parts including a rescue parrot called ‘Die Hard’ that likes to shout “Yippee Ki-yay mother fucker”
I do need make a special mention about the narrator. How she managed to read some of the saddest parts is beyond me, but she did, and she made them slightly more bearable with her soothing and compassionate voice. She was the perfect choice to deliver this rollercoaster of emotions.
Thank you to @ruthhogan @dreamscapemedia @netgalley and @elizabethknowelden for writing, producing and narrating this wonderful book.
September 15, 2026
Thank you Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for the ALC in exchange for my honest review. Elizabeth Knowelden was a great narrator for this story.
A book about dogs, is it really any wonder that I loved it? Leona was such a badass FMC, and I aspire to be more like her. I mean, who doesn’t have a dream to open up a dog rescue? If I ever win the lottery, there will be signs… 😉
The plot and its surrounding characters were as interesting as they were complex and as far as contemporary fiction goes – this book nailed it!
A book about dogs, is it really any wonder that I loved it? Leona was such a badass FMC, and I aspire to be more like her. I mean, who doesn’t have a dream to open up a dog rescue? If I ever win the lottery, there will be signs… 😉
The plot and its surrounding characters were as interesting as they were complex and as far as contemporary fiction goes – this book nailed it!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I adore Ruth Hogan’s books, they are always just that little bit different.
The Stray Dogs in the title refer to a re-formed band and also actual rescue dogs. I was hooked from the first chapter as the characters started to be introduced, starting with Dog, about to be out on the streets again.
When on her last day of work at her Vet’s practice Leona Lomax, an experienced vet is asked to do the unthinkable, I was beside myself. What follows, as Leona moves to North Norfolk and Applejack Farm; no longer a farm really, just a house and paddock, is a real dog fairy tale. Leo, as everyone calls her is going to work part time at the local vets and also set up a dog rescue centre and as various extremely characterful dogs move in Leo is soon welcomed by many of the villagers, all except one! As the members of the village, particularly Vera’s hair salon and her customers take Leo and her rescue dogs to their hearts perhaps Leo has come to the right place to follow her dream of setting up a dog rescue.
Thanks to NetGalley for an advanced reading copy in exchange for am honest review. I loved The Stray dogs and felt bereft once I had finished it.
The Stray Dogs in the title refer to a re-formed band and also actual rescue dogs. I was hooked from the first chapter as the characters started to be introduced, starting with Dog, about to be out on the streets again.
When on her last day of work at her Vet’s practice Leona Lomax, an experienced vet is asked to do the unthinkable, I was beside myself. What follows, as Leona moves to North Norfolk and Applejack Farm; no longer a farm really, just a house and paddock, is a real dog fairy tale. Leo, as everyone calls her is going to work part time at the local vets and also set up a dog rescue centre and as various extremely characterful dogs move in Leo is soon welcomed by many of the villagers, all except one! As the members of the village, particularly Vera’s hair salon and her customers take Leo and her rescue dogs to their hearts perhaps Leo has come to the right place to follow her dream of setting up a dog rescue.
Thanks to NetGalley for an advanced reading copy in exchange for am honest review. I loved The Stray dogs and felt bereft once I had finished it.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐️ 5 ⭐️
Ruth Hogan is high on my list of auto-buy authors. I’ve read (and adored) all her books. My favourite was The Keeper of Lost Things, but after reading The Stray Dogs, they're tied for first place.
I read it in two sittings; when I wasn’t reading it, I was thinking about it. It’s beautifully written; Ruth has a wonderful way with words and a great talent for creating realistic, fully rounded, believable characters.
Although I liked (mostly) all of the cast, it was the canine characters that really stole my heart, especially Goose, Maverick, and Dog. A special shout out to Die Hard, the unforgettable, potty-mouthed parrot.
It’s a fabulous story full of heart, hilarious and heartbreaking in equal measure. I laughed out loud at some of the antics and conversations between the characters and shed a few tears (particularly at the chapters narrated by Dog).
It’s a heartwarming, uplifting, humorous, life-affirming story of love and friendship in all their forms. It shows the joy and unconditional love our furry, four-legged friends bring into our lives, and it’s a gentle reminder of how important it is to keep adopting rescue dogs.
I loved it!
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
Ruth Hogan is high on my list of auto-buy authors. I’ve read (and adored) all her books. My favourite was The Keeper of Lost Things, but after reading The Stray Dogs, they're tied for first place.
I read it in two sittings; when I wasn’t reading it, I was thinking about it. It’s beautifully written; Ruth has a wonderful way with words and a great talent for creating realistic, fully rounded, believable characters.
Although I liked (mostly) all of the cast, it was the canine characters that really stole my heart, especially Goose, Maverick, and Dog. A special shout out to Die Hard, the unforgettable, potty-mouthed parrot.
It’s a fabulous story full of heart, hilarious and heartbreaking in equal measure. I laughed out loud at some of the antics and conversations between the characters and shed a few tears (particularly at the chapters narrated by Dog).
It’s a heartwarming, uplifting, humorous, life-affirming story of love and friendship in all their forms. It shows the joy and unconditional love our furry, four-legged friends bring into our lives, and it’s a gentle reminder of how important it is to keep adopting rescue dogs.
I loved it!
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
September 15, 2026
I loved this book. Such a heartfelt, emotional read for any dog/animal lover ❤️ Has made me want to rescue a dog later in life when we are retired!
September 3, 2026
A stray dog rescue center, music by a band called The Stray Dogs written by the great Ruth Hogan Win Win Win it doesn’t get much better than The Stray Dogs!!!
June 8, 2026
The Stray Dogs by Ruth Hogan ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Another great book from this author. Leo has left her job as a vet in the city and moves to the countryside and sets up a dog rescue centre. The book will draw at your heartstrings. Great writing. Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for an advance copy. Publication date August 2026
Another great book from this author. Leo has left her job as a vet in the city and moves to the countryside and sets up a dog rescue centre. The book will draw at your heartstrings. Great writing. Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for an advance copy. Publication date August 2026
June 13, 2026
A beautiful, heartwarming, emotional story that will pull at your heartstrings and let you shed a tear or two but in a good way. Thoroughly enjoyable.
With many thanks to Atlantic Books and Corvus, NetGalley and the author for an early copy.
With many thanks to Atlantic Books and Corvus, NetGalley and the author for an early copy.
September 16, 2026
…is the plot meant to be in the room with us? Why does this book end up with SEVEN POVs, I can’t get behind that at all, I ended up not being able to connect properly to any character and it made the book feel all over the place. We don’t need whole POV chapters from side characters. And SO MUCH waffly fluffy filler content too. I ended up skipping multiple pages at a time just to make it go quicker near the end and missed literally nothing of any substance.
September 13, 2026
I’m a huge dog lover, so obviously a book called The Stray Dogs was going to get my attention. I also have family members who work in dog rescue, so I really enjoyed that part of the story and could appreciate what Leo was trying to accomplish.
Leo is a veterinarian who leaves her old life behind with the dream of opening a dog rescue. We also meet Desmond, who is starting over after the end of his marriage, and quite a few other characters who become part of their lives.
I really liked the dogs and the rescue storyline. There are some sad parts involving the animals, and as a dog lover those are always hard for me to read, but this is definitely more heartwarming than heartbreaking.
I also liked that the story wasn't just about the dogs. There’s friendship, starting over, finding your people, a small-town community and even an old band getting back together. There’s a lot going on, but it all comes together.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Elizabeth Knowelden and thought she did a great job. I enjoyed her narration and the different voices she gave the characters.
Overall, this was a sweet, feel-good story with some emotional moments mixed in. If you’re a dog lover, especially if you have any connection to animal rescue, I think you’ll appreciate this one.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
Leo is a veterinarian who leaves her old life behind with the dream of opening a dog rescue. We also meet Desmond, who is starting over after the end of his marriage, and quite a few other characters who become part of their lives.
I really liked the dogs and the rescue storyline. There are some sad parts involving the animals, and as a dog lover those are always hard for me to read, but this is definitely more heartwarming than heartbreaking.
I also liked that the story wasn't just about the dogs. There’s friendship, starting over, finding your people, a small-town community and even an old band getting back together. There’s a lot going on, but it all comes together.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Elizabeth Knowelden and thought she did a great job. I enjoyed her narration and the different voices she gave the characters.
Overall, this was a sweet, feel-good story with some emotional moments mixed in. If you’re a dog lover, especially if you have any connection to animal rescue, I think you’ll appreciate this one.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
September 16, 2026
I have read all the author’s previous books and really enjoyed them so I was looking forward to reading this one and I was not disappointed. This book was a total joy to read, the characters were fabulous and I was sad to finish the book as it meant I would no longer be spending time in their company. I will be recommending this book to everyone I know.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Vet Leona 'Leo' Lennox leaves her busy city practice to move to the countryside and open a rescue centre for dogs. Unexpectedly, she finds a supportive community and romance along the way.
The Stray Dogs by Ruth Hogan immediately appealed to me; I loved the author's previous two books, I really enjoy uplifting fiction, and I'm an animal lover. This book offers it all. I did approach it with a little trepidation though, wondering how many times I'd be reaching for the tissues.
Leo has become jaded with her life as a vet. Having sold her share of the practice she owns, she's working her last day when a terrible pet owner shows up, insisting that his dog be euthanised. You can feel Leo's despair as she tries to convince the owner that there are other options, but he's adamant. All of this confirms for Leo that she's made the right decision to leave.
Arriving in the small town of Fiddlers Green, Leo meets local plumber Desmond. Desmond is one of those characters who will help anyone. Taking a shine to Leo, he immediately offers support for her project. Being set in a small town, this is one of those places where everyone knows everyone else, and there is a strong sense of community. Mixed in among the individuals willing to help are quite a few eccentric characters who help to keep the story light. There's also an antagonist, who is just the right side of being a pantomime villain to have you staring daggers whenever they appear.
As well as being a tale about community, it is primarily a story of second chances. From the abandoned dogs that Leo gives a home to, through to the men Desmond was in a band with when he was younger. The dogs are offered unconditional love. For Desmond and his band mates, it's something different; a chance to reconnect, to find a purpose, to heal wounds.
The trepidation I felt at the beginning was unfounded. There are some sad elements to the storyline, but the author doesn't exploit these for emotional effect. I would, however, have preferred to see a redemption arc for the pantomime villain or a karmic ending. I felt she got off far too easily.
If you enjoyed my review please check out my book blog, Reading For Leisure
https://readingforleisure.blogspot.com/
or follow me on:-
Twitter; @Debbie_Hart_UK
Instagram; @reading_for_leisure_blog
The Stray Dogs by Ruth Hogan immediately appealed to me; I loved the author's previous two books, I really enjoy uplifting fiction, and I'm an animal lover. This book offers it all. I did approach it with a little trepidation though, wondering how many times I'd be reaching for the tissues.
Leo has become jaded with her life as a vet. Having sold her share of the practice she owns, she's working her last day when a terrible pet owner shows up, insisting that his dog be euthanised. You can feel Leo's despair as she tries to convince the owner that there are other options, but he's adamant. All of this confirms for Leo that she's made the right decision to leave.
Arriving in the small town of Fiddlers Green, Leo meets local plumber Desmond. Desmond is one of those characters who will help anyone. Taking a shine to Leo, he immediately offers support for her project. Being set in a small town, this is one of those places where everyone knows everyone else, and there is a strong sense of community. Mixed in among the individuals willing to help are quite a few eccentric characters who help to keep the story light. There's also an antagonist, who is just the right side of being a pantomime villain to have you staring daggers whenever they appear.
As well as being a tale about community, it is primarily a story of second chances. From the abandoned dogs that Leo gives a home to, through to the men Desmond was in a band with when he was younger. The dogs are offered unconditional love. For Desmond and his band mates, it's something different; a chance to reconnect, to find a purpose, to heal wounds.
The trepidation I felt at the beginning was unfounded. There are some sad elements to the storyline, but the author doesn't exploit these for emotional effect. I would, however, have preferred to see a redemption arc for the pantomime villain or a karmic ending. I felt she got off far too easily.
If you enjoyed my review please check out my book blog, Reading For Leisure
https://readingforleisure.blogspot.com/
or follow me on:-
Twitter; @Debbie_Hart_UK
Instagram; @reading_for_leisure_blog
October 5, 2026
Ruth Hogan is an extraordinary comfort read author who never lets me down. A perfect example is her seventh novel, The Stray Dogs. It's been out in Europe since late August, and I was recently thrilled to find it available in the US on Kindle.
One of Ruth's biggest strengths is character development, and there are so many relatable characters in this book. Leo (nee Leona) is a veterinarian in her late forties who was left at the altar by her fiance. She wearies of working in a big city practice, with the last straw being a clueless customer who insists that she euthanize his gorgeous 11-month-old collie, Bob, because he was bitten when he mistreated the dog. Leo managed to convince the man that she had put Bob down with a lethal injection, while actually spiriting him away to her new home in the small town of Fiddlers Green and renaming him Goose. Her ultimate goal is to open a rescue shelter for abandoned dogs, while working part-time for a vet close to retirement.
Fiftyish Desmond, a divorced plumber, is looking for something more exciting to do with his free time and settles on reviving his old band, The Wild Boys, who were quite a sensation decades ago. When he meets Leo, he offers to get the band to play concerts where the entry fees will all go toward opening the rescue home, and Leo agrees to let him try. Other characters who figure prominently in the story include Vera, the kind proprietor of a hair salon. and Darcus, formerly the fiery leader of The Wild Boys, who hasn't been invited to front the band's new gigs. There's also the obnoxious owner of the glitzy rival hair salon, who will do anything to keep Leo from reaching her goal. And, of course, there are the dogs. Besides Goose and a harlequin Great Dane named Maverick whose human was dying, there are more requests to take on dogs from another shelter that faced destruction, even before all of the necessary money had been raised. And one desperate dog runs through the story, being taken on by a succession of new humans who can barely care for him. You can rely on Ruth Hogan to guarantee a happy ending.
Trust me--there is something for everyone in this lovely book, and reading it is a glorious experience. I've read all of Ruth Hogan's books and can recommend them without reservation A special favorite of mine is The Phoenix Ballroom.
One of Ruth's biggest strengths is character development, and there are so many relatable characters in this book. Leo (nee Leona) is a veterinarian in her late forties who was left at the altar by her fiance. She wearies of working in a big city practice, with the last straw being a clueless customer who insists that she euthanize his gorgeous 11-month-old collie, Bob, because he was bitten when he mistreated the dog. Leo managed to convince the man that she had put Bob down with a lethal injection, while actually spiriting him away to her new home in the small town of Fiddlers Green and renaming him Goose. Her ultimate goal is to open a rescue shelter for abandoned dogs, while working part-time for a vet close to retirement.
Fiftyish Desmond, a divorced plumber, is looking for something more exciting to do with his free time and settles on reviving his old band, The Wild Boys, who were quite a sensation decades ago. When he meets Leo, he offers to get the band to play concerts where the entry fees will all go toward opening the rescue home, and Leo agrees to let him try. Other characters who figure prominently in the story include Vera, the kind proprietor of a hair salon. and Darcus, formerly the fiery leader of The Wild Boys, who hasn't been invited to front the band's new gigs. There's also the obnoxious owner of the glitzy rival hair salon, who will do anything to keep Leo from reaching her goal. And, of course, there are the dogs. Besides Goose and a harlequin Great Dane named Maverick whose human was dying, there are more requests to take on dogs from another shelter that faced destruction, even before all of the necessary money had been raised. And one desperate dog runs through the story, being taken on by a succession of new humans who can barely care for him. You can rely on Ruth Hogan to guarantee a happy ending.
Trust me--there is something for everyone in this lovely book, and reading it is a glorious experience. I've read all of Ruth Hogan's books and can recommend them without reservation A special favorite of mine is The Phoenix Ballroom.
September 16, 2026
🎧 Audio Review: The accented narration was enjoyable to listen to and the audio was clear and easy to hear. I also liked how the narrator helped bring certain side character’s personalities to life!
📝 Story Review: Overall I wound up really enjoying this story. Mostly because of the sweet and quirky side characters! I also enjoyed seeing one of the POV’s from a stray/abandoned dog.
I appreciated the underlying goodness of the FMC, a Vet who had a big heart for abused and neglected animals, who decided to leave the animal hospital to work at opening a dog rescue. However, it was hard to like her as a person for a good portion of the story. Her judgmental and rather surly attitude towards the people in her new hometown was very off-putting.
The small town, found family and good friends vibes were definitely my cup of tea, and the way the town gossip was shared in the beauty salon was actually really cute and sweet instead of annoying. As a word of warning though, if you’re a dog lover or pet lover in general, this story will probably have you in tears. Please check CW’s prior to reading!
Due to the variety of characters and multi POV dynamic, I’d highly recommend the audiobook for best enjoyment of this story! (Also you get to hear the parrot as he says Yippee-Ki-Yay Motherf*ckers 😂😂)
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
Vibes: Emotional & Heartwarming
Tropes 👇
- Veterinarian FMC
- Characters in their 30s/40s
- Opening a dog rescue
- Beauty Salon/Gossip Hub
- Small Town
- Found Family
- Light Romance
- Music Band Gigs for Fundraising
- Town Troublemaker (side character you’ll hate)
CW’s 👇
- Homeless man passing away
- Animal neglect/abuse/abandonment
- Mention of bait/fighting dogs
- Death of a puppy
- Early onset dementia
Paperback Released On: August 27, 2026
Audio Release Date: September 22, 2026
Audio Run Time: 9 hrs, 42 mins
Narrated By: Elizabeth Knowelden
Genre: Women’s Fiction
POV:Third Person; Multi
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this ALC in return for my honest review.
📝 Story Review: Overall I wound up really enjoying this story. Mostly because of the sweet and quirky side characters! I also enjoyed seeing one of the POV’s from a stray/abandoned dog.
I appreciated the underlying goodness of the FMC, a Vet who had a big heart for abused and neglected animals, who decided to leave the animal hospital to work at opening a dog rescue. However, it was hard to like her as a person for a good portion of the story. Her judgmental and rather surly attitude towards the people in her new hometown was very off-putting.
The small town, found family and good friends vibes were definitely my cup of tea, and the way the town gossip was shared in the beauty salon was actually really cute and sweet instead of annoying. As a word of warning though, if you’re a dog lover or pet lover in general, this story will probably have you in tears. Please check CW’s prior to reading!
Due to the variety of characters and multi POV dynamic, I’d highly recommend the audiobook for best enjoyment of this story! (Also you get to hear the parrot as he says Yippee-Ki-Yay Motherf*ckers 😂😂)
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
Vibes: Emotional & Heartwarming
Tropes 👇
- Veterinarian FMC
- Characters in their 30s/40s
- Opening a dog rescue
- Beauty Salon/Gossip Hub
- Small Town
- Found Family
- Light Romance
- Music Band Gigs for Fundraising
- Town Troublemaker (side character you’ll hate)
CW’s 👇
- Homeless man passing away
- Animal neglect/abuse/abandonment
- Mention of bait/fighting dogs
- Death of a puppy
- Early onset dementia
Paperback Released On: August 27, 2026
Audio Release Date: September 22, 2026
Audio Run Time: 9 hrs, 42 mins
Narrated By: Elizabeth Knowelden
Genre: Women’s Fiction
POV:Third Person; Multi
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this ALC in return for my honest review.
October 1, 2026
⭐️ 4.75, rounded up to 5 ⭐️
I absolutely LOVED this gem of a book. Heartwarming, cozy, hopeful… soul-filling. The world needs more books like this!
The Stray Dogs follows Leona “Leo” Lennox, a veterinarian who leaves her old life behind with hopes of opening a rescue for abandoned dogs. Along the way she meets Desmond, who decides to reunite his old band to help raise money for the rescue, and a whole cast of humans and dogs who are each, in their own way, looking for a second chance. Woven throughout is the story of Dog, a stray searching for the one thing he’s never really had—his person. 🥹
At first glance, this appears to be a cute, cozy read—and although it absolutely is, there is so much more to it than that. My biggest takeaway was that humans and dogs alike are far more complicated than they may seem. We each have our own struggles, personality quirks, pasts, fears, and scars, but those things do not have to be the end of our story. With a little bit of hope, love, and someone willing to give us a chance, all things are possible.
As a huge animal lover, this book completely stole my heart. There are difficult and heartbreaking moments, particularly surrounding the realities of abandoned and mistreated animals, but this is overwhelmingly a story of second chances, friendship, community, healing, and finding where you belong.
Elizabeth Knowelden’s narration was an absolute joy to listen to. I found the audiobook so heartwarming and relaxing that I wanted to listen every chance I got—whether I was working during the day or lying in bed winding down at night. She brought this wonderful little world and its characters to life beautifully.
I highly recommend this one, whether you pick up a physical copy or listen on audio. In fact, I loved it enough that despite receiving the audiobook for review, I’ll be buying a physical copy for my own shelf—and I already know a few fellow animal lovers who may be getting this one from me for the holidays. ❤️🐾
Thank you to Dreamscape Media, NetGalley, Ruth Hogan, and narrator Elizabeth Knowelden for the advance listening copy in exchange for my honest review.
I absolutely LOVED this gem of a book. Heartwarming, cozy, hopeful… soul-filling. The world needs more books like this!
The Stray Dogs follows Leona “Leo” Lennox, a veterinarian who leaves her old life behind with hopes of opening a rescue for abandoned dogs. Along the way she meets Desmond, who decides to reunite his old band to help raise money for the rescue, and a whole cast of humans and dogs who are each, in their own way, looking for a second chance. Woven throughout is the story of Dog, a stray searching for the one thing he’s never really had—his person. 🥹
At first glance, this appears to be a cute, cozy read—and although it absolutely is, there is so much more to it than that. My biggest takeaway was that humans and dogs alike are far more complicated than they may seem. We each have our own struggles, personality quirks, pasts, fears, and scars, but those things do not have to be the end of our story. With a little bit of hope, love, and someone willing to give us a chance, all things are possible.
As a huge animal lover, this book completely stole my heart. There are difficult and heartbreaking moments, particularly surrounding the realities of abandoned and mistreated animals, but this is overwhelmingly a story of second chances, friendship, community, healing, and finding where you belong.
Elizabeth Knowelden’s narration was an absolute joy to listen to. I found the audiobook so heartwarming and relaxing that I wanted to listen every chance I got—whether I was working during the day or lying in bed winding down at night. She brought this wonderful little world and its characters to life beautifully.
I highly recommend this one, whether you pick up a physical copy or listen on audio. In fact, I loved it enough that despite receiving the audiobook for review, I’ll be buying a physical copy for my own shelf—and I already know a few fellow animal lovers who may be getting this one from me for the holidays. ❤️🐾
Thank you to Dreamscape Media, NetGalley, Ruth Hogan, and narrator Elizabeth Knowelden for the advance listening copy in exchange for my honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews