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Pug Actually
AN AMAZON BOOK OF THE MONTH IN ROMANCE
POPSUGAR'S BEST BOOKS OF JUNE
PARADE'S BEST CANINE BOOKS SUMMER 2021
Not all heroes wear capes. Some of them wear collars.
A Dog’s Purpose meets The Happy Ever After Playlist in this charming, pitch-perfect take on relationships as seen through the eyes of a wise pug named Doug, who is determined to play cupid to fix his owner’s love life with his own four paws.
Doug wants his rescuer, Julie, to be happy. He is loyal and loves her unconditionally—two things that can’t be said about Julie’s married boss and lover, Luke. Yet Julie is reluctant to break up, afraid to end up like her eccentric cat-owning neighbor. It’s a prospect that horrifies Doug, too.
Newly divorced Tom, on the other hand, is perfect for Julie. Everyone can see it—except for Julie and Tom. Doug is confident that with his help they will get over their initial animosity toward each other.
As Doug humorously navigates the quirks of human relationships, he knows he can’t give up on Julie—after all, being a “rescue” works both ways.
POPSUGAR'S BEST BOOKS OF JUNE
PARADE'S BEST CANINE BOOKS SUMMER 2021
Not all heroes wear capes. Some of them wear collars.
A Dog’s Purpose meets The Happy Ever After Playlist in this charming, pitch-perfect take on relationships as seen through the eyes of a wise pug named Doug, who is determined to play cupid to fix his owner’s love life with his own four paws.
Doug wants his rescuer, Julie, to be happy. He is loyal and loves her unconditionally—two things that can’t be said about Julie’s married boss and lover, Luke. Yet Julie is reluctant to break up, afraid to end up like her eccentric cat-owning neighbor. It’s a prospect that horrifies Doug, too.
Newly divorced Tom, on the other hand, is perfect for Julie. Everyone can see it—except for Julie and Tom. Doug is confident that with his help they will get over their initial animosity toward each other.
As Doug humorously navigates the quirks of human relationships, he knows he can’t give up on Julie—after all, being a “rescue” works both ways.
320 pages, Paperback
First published June 29, 2021
47 people are currently reading
3012 people want to read
About the author
Matt Dunn
23 books369 followersMatt was born in Margate, but eventually escaped to Spain to write his first novel (in between working as a newspaper columnist, and playing a lot of tennis). Previously he has been a professional lifeguard, fitness equipment salesman, and an IT head hunter, but he prefers writing for a living, so hopes people will keep buying his books.
Matt is the author of four contemporary romantic comedy novels; Best Man, The Ex-Boyfriend's Handbook (which was shortlisted for both the Romantic Novel Of The Year award, as well as the Melissa Nathan Award for Comedy Romance), From Here To Paternity, and Ex-Girlfriends United. He's also written about life, love, and relationships for various publications including The Times, Guardian, Cosmopolitan, Company, Elle, Glamour, and The Sun.
Several of Matt's novels have been translated for various European markets (he's big in the Balkans, apparently), as well as as far afield as Malaysia and Indonesia. He's a regular on the literary festival scene, and rates the recent lecturing stint he did on the Creative Writing degree course at London Metropolitan University as one of the most rewarding things he's ever done - and not only because of the number of ideas he was able to appropriate from his students for his books.
Matt is the author of four contemporary romantic comedy novels; Best Man, The Ex-Boyfriend's Handbook (which was shortlisted for both the Romantic Novel Of The Year award, as well as the Melissa Nathan Award for Comedy Romance), From Here To Paternity, and Ex-Girlfriends United. He's also written about life, love, and relationships for various publications including The Times, Guardian, Cosmopolitan, Company, Elle, Glamour, and The Sun.
Several of Matt's novels have been translated for various European markets (he's big in the Balkans, apparently), as well as as far afield as Malaysia and Indonesia. He's a regular on the literary festival scene, and rates the recent lecturing stint he did on the Creative Writing degree course at London Metropolitan University as one of the most rewarding things he's ever done - and not only because of the number of ideas he was able to appropriate from his students for his books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 337 reviews
dnf
August 20, 202117%
Oh Please.... A 35 year old woman crying and drinking herself to sleep when her married boyfriend leaves her to go home to his wife.... and more crying and drinking when her friend and or her father says something about him to her.... And her "rescue" dog tries to rescue her???
With her "moral compass"??? Someone please rescue to dog!!!
Oh Please.... A 35 year old woman crying and drinking herself to sleep when her married boyfriend leaves her to go home to his wife.... and more crying and drinking when her friend and or her father says something about him to her.... And her "rescue" dog tries to rescue her???
With her "moral compass"??? Someone please rescue to dog!!!
August 5, 2021
I was drawn to this cover because of the Absolutely Adorable Pug on the cover.
To find out the book is actually told from Doug, the Pug's point of view made this book all the more appealing. Dogs are so much smarter than we give them credit for.
Our main character is having an affair with a married man, never a good situation there but she feels like at her age, 35 she can't get anyone else interested in her for a long term relationship.
I mean come on 35 is not old at all. You haven't even hit the prime of your life at this age.
Smart boy Doug gives so many hints and clues in his own doggie way to Julie, our main character about dumping her main squeeze Luke that if she had only listened she would have saved herself a lot of heartache and tears.
One thing I didn't like in the book is how often she cries, like every little thing sets her off and I found this annoying.
The book is fun and Julie does find someone else who may be interested, it's Doug's V-E-T .
With Julie's head in the clouds after Luke promises her the moon will she be able to actually to see what's right in front of her or will she miss out this golden opportunity?
Doug is definitely the star of the show here. I want another Doug book!
Pub Date 29 Jun 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
To find out the book is actually told from Doug, the Pug's point of view made this book all the more appealing. Dogs are so much smarter than we give them credit for.
Our main character is having an affair with a married man, never a good situation there but she feels like at her age, 35 she can't get anyone else interested in her for a long term relationship.
I mean come on 35 is not old at all. You haven't even hit the prime of your life at this age.
Smart boy Doug gives so many hints and clues in his own doggie way to Julie, our main character about dumping her main squeeze Luke that if she had only listened she would have saved herself a lot of heartache and tears.
One thing I didn't like in the book is how often she cries, like every little thing sets her off and I found this annoying.
The book is fun and Julie does find someone else who may be interested, it's Doug's V-E-T .
With Julie's head in the clouds after Luke promises her the moon will she be able to actually to see what's right in front of her or will she miss out this golden opportunity?
Doug is definitely the star of the show here. I want another Doug book!
Pub Date 29 Jun 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
June 13, 2021
Awww what a fun read!!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
There are a lot of books out there that feature dogs or animals within the story. I’ve read a few of them. But this one takes it to the next level with the story written from the dog’s point of view.
This seriously sweet and unique way to write this little romance/women’s fiction is the brain child of a new to me author. I love the fact that it is written by a guy because we get a different spin in perspective on humanity.
Sometimes we don’t see or realize that people can be very sensitive to our actions, feelings, and emotions. But when we read a story written by “a dog”- pug, actually, Dunn drives home the fact that sometimes others us see more than we see ourselves.
The story is a unique, fun, and relaxing book that dives into the human psyche hinged upon loving and believing in ourselves, maybe even as much as a dog would towards his owner. Hard to do? Yes! But Dunn crafts a quirky story that begs to be experienced and enjoyed.
* copy received for review consideration
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/pug-actually...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
There are a lot of books out there that feature dogs or animals within the story. I’ve read a few of them. But this one takes it to the next level with the story written from the dog’s point of view.
This seriously sweet and unique way to write this little romance/women’s fiction is the brain child of a new to me author. I love the fact that it is written by a guy because we get a different spin in perspective on humanity.
Sometimes we don’t see or realize that people can be very sensitive to our actions, feelings, and emotions. But when we read a story written by “a dog”- pug, actually, Dunn drives home the fact that sometimes others us see more than we see ourselves.
The story is a unique, fun, and relaxing book that dives into the human psyche hinged upon loving and believing in ourselves, maybe even as much as a dog would towards his owner. Hard to do? Yes! But Dunn crafts a quirky story that begs to be experienced and enjoyed.
* copy received for review consideration
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/pug-actually...
March 5, 2021
I'm a pug mom, so this cover got me. I thought the story being told by the dog was cute and different. Unfortunately I was not a fan of the story. I was so frustrated with Julie throughout the whole book. It took over half of the book for her to really acknowledge that being in a relationship with her married boyfriend wasn't good. Then when she met Tom it was nothing to swoon over. I didn't get romantic vibes from them, there was just no chemistry. Really wanted to like this one, but it just wasn't for me. Sadly the only thing I liked about it was the pug.
September 28, 2021
Se lleva mis 4 Estrellas por la originalidad. Con esta novela se demuestra que los clichés en la romántica siempre tendrán un nuevo giro para darles. Una comedia románica clásica se convierte en un + cuando el narrador es el PERRO de la protagonista. Me he reído a carcajadas con Doug y si os gustan los animales y/o tenéis alguno, os encantará meteros en la cabeza de uno y vivir a través de él en primera persona la historia romántica de su dueña. Se lee rápido y lo he disfrutado ☺️.
May 2, 2021
Pug Actually by Matt Dunn is just such a darn cute book. I just loved hearing the story from the point of view of a dog, specifically a pug named Doug. This book is fun, heartwarming, and a nice light read.
Doug, the pug, takes it upon himself to rescue his mistress, Julie, from a relationship that is going nowhere and seeks to find her a more reliable mate. The entire story is told from Doug’s point of view, he is a rescue dog who is very loyal to his rescuer and mistress. Julie is convinced her boss, and boyfriend, Luke, will leave his wife any day now and they can live together and be happy for the rest of their lives. Unfortunately, Doug, and all of Julie’s friends, and her father know this will never happen. When Julie’s friends try to convince her of the futility of her relationship with Luke and she ignores their pleas, Doug knows it’s up to him to save his mistress from a doomed relationship and find her someone new.
This book is lighthearted, funny and an easy book to read. The characters are fun and cheerful (especially Doug!) and make a good story. The pacing of this book is quick, as Doug works to help his mistress finally find love. Doug, the narrator is absolutely charming and adorable.
Julie, is a sweet nice woman, who is completely charmed by her lying manipulative boyfriend, and her character is a bit trying at times, but forgivable as she eventually realizes the true character of her boyfriend (with help from Doug of course!).
I recommend this book for anyone looking for a light, easy romantic book staring the most adorable dog ever.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Doug, the pug, takes it upon himself to rescue his mistress, Julie, from a relationship that is going nowhere and seeks to find her a more reliable mate. The entire story is told from Doug’s point of view, he is a rescue dog who is very loyal to his rescuer and mistress. Julie is convinced her boss, and boyfriend, Luke, will leave his wife any day now and they can live together and be happy for the rest of their lives. Unfortunately, Doug, and all of Julie’s friends, and her father know this will never happen. When Julie’s friends try to convince her of the futility of her relationship with Luke and she ignores their pleas, Doug knows it’s up to him to save his mistress from a doomed relationship and find her someone new.
This book is lighthearted, funny and an easy book to read. The characters are fun and cheerful (especially Doug!) and make a good story. The pacing of this book is quick, as Doug works to help his mistress finally find love. Doug, the narrator is absolutely charming and adorable.
Julie, is a sweet nice woman, who is completely charmed by her lying manipulative boyfriend, and her character is a bit trying at times, but forgivable as she eventually realizes the true character of her boyfriend (with help from Doug of course!).
I recommend this book for anyone looking for a light, easy romantic book staring the most adorable dog ever.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
March 21, 2021
Love the cover. Love the pug, Doug. The main character drove me crazy and was whiny and frustrating. I didn't get any of the instant chemistry that one expects in a cute romance novel between her and either of her love interests in the book and at times I thought she behaved like a juvenile.
However, that all being said, I loved the fact that the story was told from the POV of the dog and found some of his observations about his life, his owner's life and the family quite entertaining. I decided on three stars for this book because whilst there were some parts of it that I could have skipped and not felt I missed much, the story was memorable in its own way.
Overall, parts of this book were highly amusing so I can still recommend it to others. If you are looking for a light read for a lazy morning, this is it.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher, provided through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
However, that all being said, I loved the fact that the story was told from the POV of the dog and found some of his observations about his life, his owner's life and the family quite entertaining. I decided on three stars for this book because whilst there were some parts of it that I could have skipped and not felt I missed much, the story was memorable in its own way.
Overall, parts of this book were highly amusing so I can still recommend it to others. If you are looking for a light read for a lazy morning, this is it.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher, provided through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
October 9, 2021
Pug Actually is a fun, lighthearted romantic comedy, pure escapism that is mostly a joy to read.
Told from the point of view of Doug the Pug who determines that his mistress Julie can do better than the manipulative married man she is currently involved with, the story is eminently readable and I read it all in one go.
Pug Actually does exactly what it says on the tin- I enjoyed it very much despite being hugely irritated by Julie who to me was wishy washy. But hey Doug loves her so there you go!
Very entertaining. Perfect for darker days when you need a lift.
Told from the point of view of Doug the Pug who determines that his mistress Julie can do better than the manipulative married man she is currently involved with, the story is eminently readable and I read it all in one go.
Pug Actually does exactly what it says on the tin- I enjoyed it very much despite being hugely irritated by Julie who to me was wishy washy. But hey Doug loves her so there you go!
Very entertaining. Perfect for darker days when you need a lift.
July 4, 2021
I’m not even all that keen on pugs (shh) but this is just too cute, a romcom (and it’s really a romcom, not a traumatic women’s fiction disguised behind a cute cover!) told from the point of view of the heroine’s pug, Doug. Yes, Doug the pug. It’s absolutely adorable.
Doug’s cuteness is needed to distract from the not-so-friendly feelings you might start off with for the heroine, Julie, when you realise she’s literally the ‘other woman’. But things aren’t black and white. Julie didn’t start out trying to steal a married man. She didn’t know Luke was married until their relationship was well under way, and then he pulled all the tricks out of the bag… his wife doesn’t understand him, they’re on the verge of separating, they’re not intimate any more, and all the rest. Doug, of course, knew all along that Luke was a rat, but since he can’t speak Human, all he can do for Julie is be lovingly supportive when she cries (again) into his neck folds.
Because this is a proper romcom, Julie’s REAL love interest soon shows up, Tom, who is to Doug’s horror a V-E-T, but Doug could forgive even that if it would make Julie happy. Now if love rat Luke would just go away…
Julie’s a bit of a hot mess, to be honest, but because we’re seeing the story through Doug’s eyes - and Doug loves her in the uncritical way only a dog can - it’s hard to judge her even when she’s falling yet again for Luke’s lines. Julie has awesome friends and a loving father (who also gets his own happily ever after) who help her finally come to the understanding that she’s self-sabotaging out of fear.
This reminds me a lot of Bridget Jones, in all the good ways - another hot mess who shambles her way to a happily ever after - but as told through the eyes of a dog, and honestly, it’s really cute. I was entirely delighted with it and I’ll be looking out for more by this author in the future. Five stars.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via NetGalley.
Doug’s cuteness is needed to distract from the not-so-friendly feelings you might start off with for the heroine, Julie, when you realise she’s literally the ‘other woman’. But things aren’t black and white. Julie didn’t start out trying to steal a married man. She didn’t know Luke was married until their relationship was well under way, and then he pulled all the tricks out of the bag… his wife doesn’t understand him, they’re on the verge of separating, they’re not intimate any more, and all the rest. Doug, of course, knew all along that Luke was a rat, but since he can’t speak Human, all he can do for Julie is be lovingly supportive when she cries (again) into his neck folds.
Because this is a proper romcom, Julie’s REAL love interest soon shows up, Tom, who is to Doug’s horror a V-E-T, but Doug could forgive even that if it would make Julie happy. Now if love rat Luke would just go away…
Julie’s a bit of a hot mess, to be honest, but because we’re seeing the story through Doug’s eyes - and Doug loves her in the uncritical way only a dog can - it’s hard to judge her even when she’s falling yet again for Luke’s lines. Julie has awesome friends and a loving father (who also gets his own happily ever after) who help her finally come to the understanding that she’s self-sabotaging out of fear.
This reminds me a lot of Bridget Jones, in all the good ways - another hot mess who shambles her way to a happily ever after - but as told through the eyes of a dog, and honestly, it’s really cute. I was entirely delighted with it and I’ll be looking out for more by this author in the future. Five stars.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via NetGalley.
November 21, 2021
Matt Dunn has all the best ideas for rom coms, and to have this one narrated via the eyes of Doug the Pug is truly inspired,
Doug is a clever dog and able to understand everything the humans are saying and can sometimes even get them to do things too!
He is determined to help Julie see that Luke isn't right for her, and that the most likely best candidate for her to fall for is Tom.
And that is despite as Doug says that Tom is a V-E-T - which is how it's phrased continually, so as not to alarm Doug!
I love books written from an animal point of view, and it's great getting into the mind of Doug which is rather realistic - at least I like to think that dogs can think that way.
This is so enjoyable and light hearted and fun, it was a pleasure to read.
Thank you to HQ Digital and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Doug is a clever dog and able to understand everything the humans are saying and can sometimes even get them to do things too!
He is determined to help Julie see that Luke isn't right for her, and that the most likely best candidate for her to fall for is Tom.
And that is despite as Doug says that Tom is a V-E-T - which is how it's phrased continually, so as not to alarm Doug!
I love books written from an animal point of view, and it's great getting into the mind of Doug which is rather realistic - at least I like to think that dogs can think that way.
This is so enjoyable and light hearted and fun, it was a pleasure to read.
Thank you to HQ Digital and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
January 27, 2025
An extra star for being written from the perspective of a pug 😍🤩
June 7, 2021
I was so looking forward to reading this book. It took awhile for me to be approved for the ARC, but I was so excited when I finally received it. Not only do I love dogs, but I adore pugs, and just could not wait to read this!
My favorite part of the story is Doug. He is so beyond cute. I just wanted to give him belly rubs! His personality is so cute.
I also loved how the author made Doug the narrator. Dunn had to be creative in how he wrote in order to have Doug always be "on the scene." He did a great job with that.
Now, for my issues. I didn't particularly care for any of the characters except Doug. Luke was awful, which wouldn't have irritated me except Julie (protagonist) was also terrible. Tom had some cute qualities, but I wasn't awestruck by him. I did like Julie's dad, and Dot was cute too, but there just wasn't one (human) character that I adored.
And, I felt the story was kind of bland. I adore cute romances, but this one just wasn't cutting it for me. It seemed so cliché. I know romances typically are cliché, but there was absolutely nothing that made this book "wow" for me. If it weren't for Doug and his adorableness, I may have not finished this novel.
I hate that my review sounds mean. I am so sorry! But I just wasn't impressed.
My favorite part of the story is Doug. He is so beyond cute. I just wanted to give him belly rubs! His personality is so cute.
I also loved how the author made Doug the narrator. Dunn had to be creative in how he wrote in order to have Doug always be "on the scene." He did a great job with that.
Now, for my issues. I didn't particularly care for any of the characters except Doug. Luke was awful, which wouldn't have irritated me except Julie (protagonist) was also terrible. Tom had some cute qualities, but I wasn't awestruck by him. I did like Julie's dad, and Dot was cute too, but there just wasn't one (human) character that I adored.
And, I felt the story was kind of bland. I adore cute romances, but this one just wasn't cutting it for me. It seemed so cliché. I know romances typically are cliché, but there was absolutely nothing that made this book "wow" for me. If it weren't for Doug and his adorableness, I may have not finished this novel.
I hate that my review sounds mean. I am so sorry! But I just wasn't impressed.
June 23, 2022
Recensione presente nel blog www.ragazzainrosso.wordpress.com
Doug è un simpatico carlino che Julie ha salvato da un canile. Empatico, molto intelligente, il tenero animale ha sviluppato un grande istinto protettivo nei confronti della sua padrona, la quale ha pensato bene d’intraprendere una relazione con il suo capo, un uomo sposato e bugiardo. Intenzionato a ricambiare il favore, Doug cerca in tutti i modi di aiutare la sua Julie infilandola tra le braccia di Tom, aitante veterinario fresco di divorzio. C’è solo una piccola e “irrilevante” circostanza avversa: i due non sembrano sopportarsi granché. Peccato, perché sarebbero una bella coppia. Il tenero Doug non rinuncia così facilmente e farà di tutto per regalare a Julie il lieto fine che si merita.
“Anche se le cose non dovessero funzionare con comesichiama, Doug non permetterà che tu ti riduca come la tua vicina.”
Che i cani siano considerati i migliori amici degli umani è risaputo così come tutti sanno quanto siano in grado di percepire le emozioni di chi li circonda.
Doug è un carlino tutto pepe, dotato di un “sesto senso” che lo rende molto simile agli umani. L’animale, infatti, è in grado di captare tutto quello che avviene e, a suo modo, d’intervenire per modificare la situazione a suo piacimento. Nulla di magico, il suo è un atteggiamento affettuoso.
Julie è una donna che fondamentalmente ha paura dell’amore. questo suo limite la porta a vivere una relazione nella quale ricopre il ruolo dell’altra, persino ingannando se stessa in nome di quel sentimento che cerca e rifugge allo stesso tempo.
Tom incarna il prototipo dell’uomo normale che sa essere speciale. Intelligente, altruista, con un passato sentimentale difficile rappresenta tutto ciò che Julie potrebbe desiderare se non fosse per alcune frasi pronunciate al momento sbagliato.
Il rapporto tra Julie e Tom nasce col piede sbagliato. Entrambi sono testardi, fanno fatica a lasciarsi completamente andare e a fidarsi reciprocamente. Per questo la presenza di Doug si rivela fondamentale. L’animale, come un vero e proprio spirito guida, si comporta da deus ex machina e imprime alla trama un’impronta significativa attraverso una serie di incontri combinati e imprevisti più o meno previsti.
Lo stile della prosa è semplice, fluido e diretto. L’intera vicenda è narrata attraverso la voce di Doug, il quale presenta gli eventi a suo modo suscitando nel lettore ironia e divertimento.
Un romanzo dolcissimo. Una lettura fresca e originale che non può non essere apprezzata.
Doug è un simpatico carlino che Julie ha salvato da un canile. Empatico, molto intelligente, il tenero animale ha sviluppato un grande istinto protettivo nei confronti della sua padrona, la quale ha pensato bene d’intraprendere una relazione con il suo capo, un uomo sposato e bugiardo. Intenzionato a ricambiare il favore, Doug cerca in tutti i modi di aiutare la sua Julie infilandola tra le braccia di Tom, aitante veterinario fresco di divorzio. C’è solo una piccola e “irrilevante” circostanza avversa: i due non sembrano sopportarsi granché. Peccato, perché sarebbero una bella coppia. Il tenero Doug non rinuncia così facilmente e farà di tutto per regalare a Julie il lieto fine che si merita.
“Anche se le cose non dovessero funzionare con comesichiama, Doug non permetterà che tu ti riduca come la tua vicina.”
Che i cani siano considerati i migliori amici degli umani è risaputo così come tutti sanno quanto siano in grado di percepire le emozioni di chi li circonda.
Doug è un carlino tutto pepe, dotato di un “sesto senso” che lo rende molto simile agli umani. L’animale, infatti, è in grado di captare tutto quello che avviene e, a suo modo, d’intervenire per modificare la situazione a suo piacimento. Nulla di magico, il suo è un atteggiamento affettuoso.
Julie è una donna che fondamentalmente ha paura dell’amore. questo suo limite la porta a vivere una relazione nella quale ricopre il ruolo dell’altra, persino ingannando se stessa in nome di quel sentimento che cerca e rifugge allo stesso tempo.
Tom incarna il prototipo dell’uomo normale che sa essere speciale. Intelligente, altruista, con un passato sentimentale difficile rappresenta tutto ciò che Julie potrebbe desiderare se non fosse per alcune frasi pronunciate al momento sbagliato.
Il rapporto tra Julie e Tom nasce col piede sbagliato. Entrambi sono testardi, fanno fatica a lasciarsi completamente andare e a fidarsi reciprocamente. Per questo la presenza di Doug si rivela fondamentale. L’animale, come un vero e proprio spirito guida, si comporta da deus ex machina e imprime alla trama un’impronta significativa attraverso una serie di incontri combinati e imprevisti più o meno previsti.
Lo stile della prosa è semplice, fluido e diretto. L’intera vicenda è narrata attraverso la voce di Doug, il quale presenta gli eventi a suo modo suscitando nel lettore ironia e divertimento.
Un romanzo dolcissimo. Una lettura fresca e originale che non può non essere apprezzata.
April 25, 2021
I needed cheering up this weekend and 'Pug, Actually' was just the ticket. Doug the Pug and his human, Julie Newman (Newman the Human, as Doug observes) are the best of friends but Doug's not so sure about Julie's boyfriend, Ryan. Ryan's a wrong'un - he's Julie's boss and he's married. Their 'relationship' is little more than what Julie's friend Priya describes as a series of 'booty calls'. Ryan's a scumbag. He doesn't even like Doug.
But Julie's world has the potential to be better. Her widowed father is lovely and is being given the eye by Dot from the cafe in the park. And Dot's son Tom - the V.E.T. - could be the answer to Julie's problems if only she'd see it.
The book is super. Told from the perspective of a characterful little dog who understands EVERYTHING and will fight the biggest dogs and the nastiest of creepy men to get what Julie needs. It addresses issues around affairs, cheating, lying, divorce, IVF and a ton of other stuff. I expected rather silly chick-lit but instead got something a bit more weighty. It's still fun and frivolous, there aren't too many twists or surprises, but it's life=affirming, endearing, and delightful and almost guaranteed to cheer you up.
Many thanks to Netgalley and the Publishers for my copy.
But Julie's world has the potential to be better. Her widowed father is lovely and is being given the eye by Dot from the cafe in the park. And Dot's son Tom - the V.E.T. - could be the answer to Julie's problems if only she'd see it.
The book is super. Told from the perspective of a characterful little dog who understands EVERYTHING and will fight the biggest dogs and the nastiest of creepy men to get what Julie needs. It addresses issues around affairs, cheating, lying, divorce, IVF and a ton of other stuff. I expected rather silly chick-lit but instead got something a bit more weighty. It's still fun and frivolous, there aren't too many twists or surprises, but it's life=affirming, endearing, and delightful and almost guaranteed to cheer you up.
Many thanks to Netgalley and the Publishers for my copy.
July 21, 2025
Who doesn't love a book about a match-making pug by the name of Doug!
This was just what I was in the mood for, a light-hearted read with funny remarks all told from Doug the pug's pov.
Angry that his owner Julie is being strung along by her boss Luke, who insists he's leaving his wife for her, soon, when it's the right time, not just yet, it's complicated.
Doug sets out to find a mate who is single for Julie. Along comes the newly divorced V.E.T. Tom can Doug, along with his human grandad and their friends, find Julie her happy ever after.
I feel like I need more books narrated by the main character's pets! Seeing the world through the beloved and loyal pets' eyes made for a fab and fun read. Julie herself could be a little annoying. However, all the things I felt like shouting at her soon were by another character! I loved Tom the V.E.T. and Dougs grandad, fab characters that understood exactly what Doug was trying to say to them. A lovely, light-hearted read!
This was just what I was in the mood for, a light-hearted read with funny remarks all told from Doug the pug's pov.
Angry that his owner Julie is being strung along by her boss Luke, who insists he's leaving his wife for her, soon, when it's the right time, not just yet, it's complicated.
Doug sets out to find a mate who is single for Julie. Along comes the newly divorced V.E.T. Tom can Doug, along with his human grandad and their friends, find Julie her happy ever after.
I feel like I need more books narrated by the main character's pets! Seeing the world through the beloved and loyal pets' eyes made for a fab and fun read. Julie herself could be a little annoying. However, all the things I felt like shouting at her soon were by another character! I loved Tom the V.E.T. and Dougs grandad, fab characters that understood exactly what Doug was trying to say to them. A lovely, light-hearted read!
May 30, 2021
First, I am a dog lover, and this is a book that revolves around a pug, actually he tells the story!
We all know that pets are a good judge of character and our resident Pug is no exception. He is known as Doug, and Doug is one sharp Pug, and if his owner, Julie had just listened to him, he would have saved her a lot of heartache.
I loved how this sweet canine even makes some people finally tell the truth and do the right thing. You’ll find yourself chuckling and page turning for what is going to happen next.
This is a quick read, and when done I missed Doug!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher MIRA, and was not required to give a positive review.
We all know that pets are a good judge of character and our resident Pug is no exception. He is known as Doug, and Doug is one sharp Pug, and if his owner, Julie had just listened to him, he would have saved her a lot of heartache.
I loved how this sweet canine even makes some people finally tell the truth and do the right thing. You’ll find yourself chuckling and page turning for what is going to happen next.
This is a quick read, and when done I missed Doug!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher MIRA, and was not required to give a positive review.
July 25, 2025
This is a perfect summer read for dog lovers! It was pretty fast-paced and light-hearted.
Overall, the story was good but some parts deserved only two stars. Tom was so adorable! However, Julie was kind of a red flag for the way she kept treating people who cared about her and only wanted to help her. Like, honey, just because you're sad doesn't mean you can treat people like crap. Honestly, I think Tom would have been a better match with Sarah.
Doug was the star of the story. He was such a cutie! Honestly, he was the reason I kept on reading when Julie was being annoying.
I had never read a book from a dog's POV and I sure want to do it again!
Overall, the story was good but some parts deserved only two stars. Tom was so adorable! However, Julie was kind of a red flag for the way she kept treating people who cared about her and only wanted to help her. Like, honey, just because you're sad doesn't mean you can treat people like crap. Honestly, I think Tom would have been a better match with Sarah.
Doug was the star of the story. He was such a cutie! Honestly, he was the reason I kept on reading when Julie was being annoying.
I had never read a book from a dog's POV and I sure want to do it again!
December 26, 2021
Sería un 3,5⭐ en realidad. Me ha encantado Doug como narrador, pero la historia en sí no tiene demasiado interés y me ha parecido algo simplona. Me la he leído en un suspiro y ha sido entretenida, pero creo que esperaba algo más.
October 23, 2022
Did we really expect a man to write a normal female character? No, but Doug the Pug is one of the best characters I’ve read in my life
July 3, 2021
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
As soon as I saw that this book was told from Doug's (the pug) point of view, I was intrigued. It was such as cute and fun story as he tried to help his owner and best friend find her direction and steer her in the right direction. Doug's feelings towards Julie were in all of his actions, no matter how frustrating her actions may have been. The writing style of this book was also super easy to read and fast paced, which made it a quick and enjoyable read - perfect for summer reading!
As soon as I saw that this book was told from Doug's (the pug) point of view, I was intrigued. It was such as cute and fun story as he tried to help his owner and best friend find her direction and steer her in the right direction. Doug's feelings towards Julie were in all of his actions, no matter how frustrating her actions may have been. The writing style of this book was also super easy to read and fast paced, which made it a quick and enjoyable read - perfect for summer reading!
April 6, 2021
Thanks to NetGalley for this advance reader copy of Pug Actually in exchange for a review.
I was drawn to the description, the title, and the point of view, the book is narrated by Doug, when called by Julies Scottish Dad, sounds like Dog. Julie is in an unhealthy relationship with a married man. Can Doug get her to leave him and find a more suitable mate?
I thought all of the characters were completely likable except Julie and Luke. It was hard to like Julie in this book as she struggled with staying with or leaving Luke for most of the books the pregnant wife should have done it. Regardless, Doug being the narrator did it for me, he was charming and funny throughout, as were Dad, and Dot and Tom.
This was my first Rom Com, so reviewing them is new. It was a darling and fun read. I enjoyed it. The references to British culture I understood, but not sure most Americans would (I laughed at the Eastenders references because who doesn’t love that show!) not sure our library will get a copy because it’s a UK pub, but I’ve already mentioned it to several people.
4*
I was drawn to the description, the title, and the point of view, the book is narrated by Doug, when called by Julies Scottish Dad, sounds like Dog. Julie is in an unhealthy relationship with a married man. Can Doug get her to leave him and find a more suitable mate?
I thought all of the characters were completely likable except Julie and Luke. It was hard to like Julie in this book as she struggled with staying with or leaving Luke for most of the books the pregnant wife should have done it. Regardless, Doug being the narrator did it for me, he was charming and funny throughout, as were Dad, and Dot and Tom.
This was my first Rom Com, so reviewing them is new. It was a darling and fun read. I enjoyed it. The references to British culture I understood, but not sure most Americans would (I laughed at the Eastenders references because who doesn’t love that show!) not sure our library will get a copy because it’s a UK pub, but I’ve already mentioned it to several people.
4*
July 1, 2021
I have to say that I was drawn to this book by the fact that an adorable pug was on the cover. As soon as I saw that it was a story told from a dog’s point of view, then I knew that I just had to read the book as soon as I could. I am a huge dog lover too and I am currently owned by two lovely but loopy Labradors. I couldn’t wait to start reading and so without further ado, I grabbed a cup of tea, grabbed my Kindle and settled down for a fun afternoon of reading. Oh my word, ‘Pug Actually’ was superb and I loved every single second of it but more about that in a bit.
What can I say about Doug the Pug? He is just adorable with a capital A. He was rescued by Julie and her Dad and now Doug sees it as his mission to rescue Julie. Julie is having an affair with a married man, who seems to have promised her the earth but has done nothing about it. Doug doesn’t think much of Julie’s boyfriend and lets him know in no uncertain terms. Some of his antics had me literally laughing out loud. Doug wants to see Julie settled with a nice lad, who treats her right and he makes it his mission to do just that. What happens? Well for the answer to that question, you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
This book really was a delight to read from start to finish. As soon as I started to read this book, I knew that I wouldn’t be budging from my reading spot for the rest of the day. The book seemed to develop a hold over me and it was a hold that I wasn’t willing to break. The pages seemed to fly past in a blur as I worked my way through the story. I loved reading about Doug’s antics and the way in which he interprets things. ‘Pug Actually’ wasn’t exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I just couldn’t bear to miss a single second of the story. I through enjoyed every single thing about this book. Reading ‘Pug Actually’ did more to cheer me up than any medication possibly could have done.
‘Pug Actually’ is brilliantly written. In Doug, Matt has created an adorable character, who is impossible to dislike. As I mentioned above, I am owned by two Labradors and I often wonder what they would say to me if they could talk. Well Doug has given me a fair idea of how a dog’s mind works. I love the very vivid and realistic way in which Matt tells the story. He makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story themselves and at the heart of the action. I have to say that I started chuckling out loud when I started to read the book and I was still chuckling away long after I had finished reading the book.
In short, I absolutely adored reading ‘Pug Actually’ and I will definitely be recommending this book to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Matt’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
What can I say about Doug the Pug? He is just adorable with a capital A. He was rescued by Julie and her Dad and now Doug sees it as his mission to rescue Julie. Julie is having an affair with a married man, who seems to have promised her the earth but has done nothing about it. Doug doesn’t think much of Julie’s boyfriend and lets him know in no uncertain terms. Some of his antics had me literally laughing out loud. Doug wants to see Julie settled with a nice lad, who treats her right and he makes it his mission to do just that. What happens? Well for the answer to that question, you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
This book really was a delight to read from start to finish. As soon as I started to read this book, I knew that I wouldn’t be budging from my reading spot for the rest of the day. The book seemed to develop a hold over me and it was a hold that I wasn’t willing to break. The pages seemed to fly past in a blur as I worked my way through the story. I loved reading about Doug’s antics and the way in which he interprets things. ‘Pug Actually’ wasn’t exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I just couldn’t bear to miss a single second of the story. I through enjoyed every single thing about this book. Reading ‘Pug Actually’ did more to cheer me up than any medication possibly could have done.
‘Pug Actually’ is brilliantly written. In Doug, Matt has created an adorable character, who is impossible to dislike. As I mentioned above, I am owned by two Labradors and I often wonder what they would say to me if they could talk. Well Doug has given me a fair idea of how a dog’s mind works. I love the very vivid and realistic way in which Matt tells the story. He makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story themselves and at the heart of the action. I have to say that I started chuckling out loud when I started to read the book and I was still chuckling away long after I had finished reading the book.
In short, I absolutely adored reading ‘Pug Actually’ and I will definitely be recommending this book to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Matt’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
August 31, 2021
First of all I’d like to say a big thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for accepting my request to read this book because it is everything that I wanted. I mean it’s a story told by a Pug, called Doug with romance and humour.
This story was just so cute, from the very beginning I could not put this down because I wanted to hear more from Doug and what he was going to do about his owners poor relationship with, let’s face it, an arsehole. I loved seeing the situations that he got himself as well as Julie into. And the part with the pet exercise and how Doug feels about it? Utter perfection.
Apart from the cute narrator we also get a charming and well intentioned love interest called Tom and Dunn could not have written a better love interest. I could not put this book down until I got to read about Julie’s happy ever after.
This story was just so cute, from the very beginning I could not put this down because I wanted to hear more from Doug and what he was going to do about his owners poor relationship with, let’s face it, an arsehole. I loved seeing the situations that he got himself as well as Julie into. And the part with the pet exercise and how Doug feels about it? Utter perfection.
Apart from the cute narrator we also get a charming and well intentioned love interest called Tom and Dunn could not have written a better love interest. I could not put this book down until I got to read about Julie’s happy ever after.
May 22, 2021
This is a romantic comedy told entirely from the POV of Doug the pug. I completely adore the dog and every single thing about all of his scenes. He's the best part of the story! And he made me laugh. However, the main character is a bit of a hot mess: she's unapologetically in a relationship with a married man for a chunk of the book and she has a tough time understanding why this is a bad thing. She also struggles with her self-worth. Doug is the one who decides she needs to dump her awful boyfriend and find someone better. His matchmaking made me smile.
I chose to read this one because I wanted a story that was easy-breezy, fun, and required little to no work from me. This was perfect for that because Doug kept me wanting to turn the pages.
I received an early digital copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a review. Thank you, Harlequin MIRA!
I chose to read this one because I wanted a story that was easy-breezy, fun, and required little to no work from me. This was perfect for that because Doug kept me wanting to turn the pages.
I received an early digital copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a review. Thank you, Harlequin MIRA!
November 29, 2021
Es una es sencilla, un poco diferente al ser un narrador un perro, pero me ha gustado y me ha dejado con una sonrisa. Me ha recordado mucho a las típicas películas que echan en la tele un domingo por la tarde y que, aunque no tenga una trama diferente, te engancha hasta el final. Es por ello que es perfecta para leer en una tarde y pasar un rato agradable y divertido con las locuras de Doug.
Los personajes son bastante sencillos, no hay mucha profundidad en ellos, pero no es una historia que lo necesite. Quiero destacar a Doug, aunque hace cosas un poco improbables para ser un perro, me ha padecido muy inocente y dulce y es lo que más me ha gustado de la historia, digamos que él es lo que hace que la historia sea diferente.
Y el romance, bueno… es lo que menos me ha convencido porque he sentido como que ha ido todo muy rápido con Tom, y al mismo tiempo muy lento con Luke, el cual me ha caído bastante mal, pero mal mal. Así que me ha faltado más Tom y menos Luke.
Los personajes son bastante sencillos, no hay mucha profundidad en ellos, pero no es una historia que lo necesite. Quiero destacar a Doug, aunque hace cosas un poco improbables para ser un perro, me ha padecido muy inocente y dulce y es lo que más me ha gustado de la historia, digamos que él es lo que hace que la historia sea diferente.
Y el romance, bueno… es lo que menos me ha convencido porque he sentido como que ha ido todo muy rápido con Tom, y al mismo tiempo muy lento con Luke, el cual me ha caído bastante mal, pero mal mal. Así que me ha faltado más Tom y menos Luke.
November 6, 2021
This is a fun little book about a Pug named Doug. Although I don't usually like stories where the animal thinks and act like a human, little Doug was a treasure. I received this book from SweetReads, and although it would not be a book that I would normally buy, I enjoyed reading it. Doug's owner Julie is a bit much to take though. For a woman of 35 years old, Julie is very immature, and can't seem to think for herself. Good thing she has her Dad, her friend Priya and her husband Sanj, and of course, Doug. This is a fun little book that sets Julie on an adventure to find a new beau, to replace her married, self-absorbed jerk of a lover. Doug is the driver in this book, and it is through his tenacity that Julie finds someone who can love and appreciate her the way Doug thinks she deserves to be treated.
August 1, 2021
3.5 cuz its a Pug's POV !!!
February 5, 2022
This book was told from the point of view of the dog. I found that very interesting. At first it was a bit confusing, but once I got that I was able to get through the book pretty well.
November 6, 2021
★ ★ ★ 1/2 (rounded up)
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
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WHAT'S PUG ACTUALLY ABOUT?
Julie is in a bad relationship, for the last few years she's been seeing a married man. You know the type—after a few months, he reveals that fact and keeps promising to leave his wife, but... Oh, he's also her boss. Even if he wasn't married, he doesn't treat her well (and is definitely not a dog person). There's just nothing good to say about Luke.
But Julie really doesn't see that. Her dad. Jim, and her best friend, Pryia, do—but they can only say so much. But her other best friend, Doug, decides he's going to do something about it. He starts looking for suitable matches—he doesn't understand human attractiveness, so he knows he's at a disadvantage. Early on, he tries to arrange a "meet cute" by knocking over someone's coffee in the park, but has to abandon that method.
Then Julie is introduced to a recent divorce, Tom. Doug likes him right away (as does Julie's dad)—even if he is a (gasp) veterinarian. Doug fakes a limp to get taken to Tom's office, puts up with dog exercise classes in the part, and generally does everything he can to keep the two meeting up. He also steps up his antagonism toward Luke, to try to make it clear to Julie who he prefers.
Doug is a pug who was rescued by Julie and her dad after the death of Julie's mom. He decides that rescuing can work both ways—and determines that he's going to find Julie a better guy than Luke.
Without realizing that's what they're doing, Jim and Priya help out—discouraging time with Luke and playing up Tom (or anyone else), Jim even is partially responsible for introducing Tom to her.
Slowly something maybe starts between Julie and Tom, and things definitely (and largely independently from the Tom story) get worse between Julie and Luke. And Doug's along all the while doing his best to help.
THE VERY SWEET SUBPLOT
When Jim and Doug take their walks, Jim has a habit of stopping by a coffee shop run by a woman named Dot. Dot's interest in Jim is about as obvious as Doug being a dog. But Jim's not ready to see anyone after his wife, so is either oblivious or chooses to be. Tom is actually Dot's son.
About the time that Tom meets Julie, Jim finally opens himself up to the idea of seeing someone. Watching Dot and Jim's relationship start is possibly the best part of the book (it certainly comes with less drama and more fun).
DOUG AS NARRATOR
Going back to Debora and James Howe's Harold and up through Spencer Quinn's Chet, I've been a sucker for dog narrators. It's a weakness, and not one I'm in any rush to lose. Doug is one more in a line of dog narrators that has charmed his way into my heart.
Doug's rather erudite and educated for a canine writer. Sure, there are human things he doesn't understand, and a few things that a small pug can't see. But he's not as easily distracted as Chet, for example. He's capable of rattling off a Chinese proverb in Chinese—perhaps because he is a pug, because he doesn't show an affinity for other languages.
He's also like every dog I've ever met, but especially like the pug sitting next to me, and is always hungry—and a little pudgy (hence the need for the exercise class). And while everyone will talk about his need to lose weight, he's really good at getting them to give him a treat (or finding some on his own).
I really enjoy everyone spelling V-E-T every time they mention Tom's profession, although as Doug notes, he can spell. The reliable "Big Stretch!" said by everyone who isn't Luke when Doug stretches brought a grin to my face (and has made me a bit self-conscious when I do the same to my canine companions).
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT PUG ACTUALLY?
This is a sweet, cute book. Pug Actually is a pretty standard rom-com, you can see most of the story beats coming, but Dunn writes them in an effective way, so who cares? Adding Doug to the mix adds a layer of charm and humor that help make this more than standard.
There's a moment near the end that really doesn't seem necessary to add one last hurdle to the Tom and Julie romance. It soured my wife a bit on the book, but me less so. I see where it was necessary—or at least helpful—to give Doug a couple of more shining moments. But the ending was nice enough to make up for whatever stumble that plot point made.
When he was on the Author Stories podcast, Dunn suggested that there might be a sequel in the works. If one appears, I'll jump on it.
If you're in the mood for a pleasant, light read, I recommend this. Even better if you're in the mood for a rom-com. If you're a dog lover, it'll help, but even cat people should find plenty to love here.
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
---
WHAT'S PUG ACTUALLY ABOUT?
Julie is in a bad relationship, for the last few years she's been seeing a married man. You know the type—after a few months, he reveals that fact and keeps promising to leave his wife, but... Oh, he's also her boss. Even if he wasn't married, he doesn't treat her well (and is definitely not a dog person). There's just nothing good to say about Luke.
But Julie really doesn't see that. Her dad. Jim, and her best friend, Pryia, do—but they can only say so much. But her other best friend, Doug, decides he's going to do something about it. He starts looking for suitable matches—he doesn't understand human attractiveness, so he knows he's at a disadvantage. Early on, he tries to arrange a "meet cute" by knocking over someone's coffee in the park, but has to abandon that method.
Then Julie is introduced to a recent divorce, Tom. Doug likes him right away (as does Julie's dad)—even if he is a (gasp) veterinarian. Doug fakes a limp to get taken to Tom's office, puts up with dog exercise classes in the part, and generally does everything he can to keep the two meeting up. He also steps up his antagonism toward Luke, to try to make it clear to Julie who he prefers.
Doug is a pug who was rescued by Julie and her dad after the death of Julie's mom. He decides that rescuing can work both ways—and determines that he's going to find Julie a better guy than Luke.
Without realizing that's what they're doing, Jim and Priya help out—discouraging time with Luke and playing up Tom (or anyone else), Jim even is partially responsible for introducing Tom to her.
Slowly something maybe starts between Julie and Tom, and things definitely (and largely independently from the Tom story) get worse between Julie and Luke. And Doug's along all the while doing his best to help.
THE VERY SWEET SUBPLOT
When Jim and Doug take their walks, Jim has a habit of stopping by a coffee shop run by a woman named Dot. Dot's interest in Jim is about as obvious as Doug being a dog. But Jim's not ready to see anyone after his wife, so is either oblivious or chooses to be. Tom is actually Dot's son.
About the time that Tom meets Julie, Jim finally opens himself up to the idea of seeing someone. Watching Dot and Jim's relationship start is possibly the best part of the book (it certainly comes with less drama and more fun).
DOUG AS NARRATOR
Going back to Debora and James Howe's Harold and up through Spencer Quinn's Chet, I've been a sucker for dog narrators. It's a weakness, and not one I'm in any rush to lose. Doug is one more in a line of dog narrators that has charmed his way into my heart.
Doug's rather erudite and educated for a canine writer. Sure, there are human things he doesn't understand, and a few things that a small pug can't see. But he's not as easily distracted as Chet, for example. He's capable of rattling off a Chinese proverb in Chinese—perhaps because he is a pug, because he doesn't show an affinity for other languages.
He's also like every dog I've ever met, but especially like the pug sitting next to me, and is always hungry—and a little pudgy (hence the need for the exercise class). And while everyone will talk about his need to lose weight, he's really good at getting them to give him a treat (or finding some on his own).
I really enjoy everyone spelling V-E-T every time they mention Tom's profession, although as Doug notes, he can spell. The reliable "Big Stretch!" said by everyone who isn't Luke when Doug stretches brought a grin to my face (and has made me a bit self-conscious when I do the same to my canine companions).
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT PUG ACTUALLY?
This is a sweet, cute book. Pug Actually is a pretty standard rom-com, you can see most of the story beats coming, but Dunn writes them in an effective way, so who cares? Adding Doug to the mix adds a layer of charm and humor that help make this more than standard.
There's a moment near the end that really doesn't seem necessary to add one last hurdle to the Tom and Julie romance. It soured my wife a bit on the book, but me less so. I see where it was necessary—or at least helpful—to give Doug a couple of more shining moments. But the ending was nice enough to make up for whatever stumble that plot point made.
When he was on the Author Stories podcast, Dunn suggested that there might be a sequel in the works. If one appears, I'll jump on it.
If you're in the mood for a pleasant, light read, I recommend this. Even better if you're in the mood for a rom-com. If you're a dog lover, it'll help, but even cat people should find plenty to love here.
June 29, 2021
Doug is a pug and is faithful companion to Julie, his human. Julie is in love with Luke who she has been in a relationship for many months. The only problem is that Luke is married and he keeps coming up with excuses as to why he can’t leave his wife which Julie falls for time and time again.
Watching this all play out, Doug is appalled at the way that Luke is treating Julie and just wants her to wake up to the fact that she is being played for a fool. When they meet single Tom, Doug knows instantly that he is right for Julie but can she ever see Luke for what he really is? He wants her to be happy but Julie’s self-esteem is so low she can’t see that Luke will only ever make her miserable.
This book is charming and I enjoyed reading about the characters from Doug’s point of view. He made me laugh with his observations of strange humans. I’ve never read anything like this and having just got a dog myself I do often wonder what’s going on in his mind.
Doug was absolutely my favourite character and Tom is just so perfect for Julie. Luke on the other hand is just loathsome and I was willing her to wake up and see him for what he is. Her dad is a brilliant character too and once I found out more about Julie’s history her actions are much more understandable.
An enjoyable and fun read which I thoroughly recommend.
Watching this all play out, Doug is appalled at the way that Luke is treating Julie and just wants her to wake up to the fact that she is being played for a fool. When they meet single Tom, Doug knows instantly that he is right for Julie but can she ever see Luke for what he really is? He wants her to be happy but Julie’s self-esteem is so low she can’t see that Luke will only ever make her miserable.
This book is charming and I enjoyed reading about the characters from Doug’s point of view. He made me laugh with his observations of strange humans. I’ve never read anything like this and having just got a dog myself I do often wonder what’s going on in his mind.
Doug was absolutely my favourite character and Tom is just so perfect for Julie. Luke on the other hand is just loathsome and I was willing her to wake up and see him for what he is. Her dad is a brilliant character too and once I found out more about Julie’s history her actions are much more understandable.
An enjoyable and fun read which I thoroughly recommend.
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