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Books for Dog Lovers #2
When The Skies Cry: Heartwarming Dog Fiction
Sometimes, the one you’re saving is really saving you.
Harley loses everything when his master dies — his home, his best friend, his reason for living. Day after day, he trudges the streets, trembling from the biting cold, whimpering from the gnawing hunger.
Across town, Rachel has an alimony hearing looming and a make-or-break deadline hurtling toward her, yet they aren’t her biggest worries — her autistic son has withdrawn so far into his own private world, he barely acknowledges she even exists.
Luckily, the magic of life is in the surprises no one ever sees coming…
Praise for As The Stars Fall: A Book for Dog Lovers book #1:
★★★★★ “A great story with a beautiful, heart-warming ending.” Tom Kiker, Amazon
★★★★★ “A heart-warming, touching, and poignant novel about the love between a dog and a young girl.” Paula, Amazon
★★★★★ “A story that is equal parts intense beauty and heart wrenching agony… I know I'll still think of this story years down the road.” Insatiable Readers book blog
★★★★★ “Thought provoking and well written. [I] loved it so much I’ve bought 2 paperbacks to give as Christmas presents! It’ll break your heart and rebuild it again.” C. Johnson, Amazon
★★★★★ “A perfect book for dog lovers. It is a story of courage, determination and love.” Library Lady, Amazon
★★★★★ “I almost laughed myself into an asthma attack during certain scenes and cried at the end of this book, all the while wondering if this is how my own dog perceives me.” Kathy Banfield, Goodreads
★★★★★ “[I] highly recommend it especially if you like books like Marley and Me, The Art of Racing in the Rain, and similar stories.” Storeybook Reviews book blog
If you love dogs, and enjoy stories just as heartwarming as they are heartbreaking, you need to read When The Skies Cry.
Harley loses everything when his master dies — his home, his best friend, his reason for living. Day after day, he trudges the streets, trembling from the biting cold, whimpering from the gnawing hunger.
Across town, Rachel has an alimony hearing looming and a make-or-break deadline hurtling toward her, yet they aren’t her biggest worries — her autistic son has withdrawn so far into his own private world, he barely acknowledges she even exists.
Luckily, the magic of life is in the surprises no one ever sees coming…
Praise for As The Stars Fall: A Book for Dog Lovers book #1:
★★★★★ “A great story with a beautiful, heart-warming ending.” Tom Kiker, Amazon
★★★★★ “A heart-warming, touching, and poignant novel about the love between a dog and a young girl.” Paula, Amazon
★★★★★ “A story that is equal parts intense beauty and heart wrenching agony… I know I'll still think of this story years down the road.” Insatiable Readers book blog
★★★★★ “Thought provoking and well written. [I] loved it so much I’ve bought 2 paperbacks to give as Christmas presents! It’ll break your heart and rebuild it again.” C. Johnson, Amazon
★★★★★ “A perfect book for dog lovers. It is a story of courage, determination and love.” Library Lady, Amazon
★★★★★ “I almost laughed myself into an asthma attack during certain scenes and cried at the end of this book, all the while wondering if this is how my own dog perceives me.” Kathy Banfield, Goodreads
★★★★★ “[I] highly recommend it especially if you like books like Marley and Me, The Art of Racing in the Rain, and similar stories.” Storeybook Reviews book blog
If you love dogs, and enjoy stories just as heartwarming as they are heartbreaking, you need to read When The Skies Cry.
- GenresAnimals
362 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 22, 2021
602 people are currently reading
210 people want to read
About the author
Steve N. Lee
26 books108 followersSteve has three passions: anti-heroes, animals, and travel. To date, he's visited 60 countries and has adopted five homeless cats, but he's yet to prowl the streets in the dead of night to beat up bad guys (though he still daydreams about doing so, but who doesn't?).
In pursuit of adventure, he's cage-dived with great white sharks, sparred with a monk at a Shaolin temple, and explored exotic locales such as Machu Picchu, Pompeii, and the Great Wall of China.
Fortunately, his passions fuel his fiction. He loves to pepper his action-packed thrillers with the exotic places he's explored and the unusual encounters he's experienced, while his dog stories glow with the love and companionship that will warm the heart of any animal lover.
More recently, while on his travels, Steve came across two true stories from the Holocaust which moved him so deeply, he has based two novels on them.
He lives in the North of England with his partner, Ania, the great-great-great niece of the 1924 winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature, and two stray black cats who visited their garden one day and liked it so much, they moved into the house. Luckily, they graciously allowed Steve and Ania to carry on living there, even allowing Steve to continue paying the mortgage to give him a sense of purpose.
If you love stories of four-legged heroes, tales from histories darkest hour, or books with pulse-pounding action, you'll love Steve's three series. He wrote them for book lovers just like you!
Visit Steve's website: http://stevenleebooks.com/
Follow Steve on Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/steve...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
October 20, 2021
When the Skies Cry is the second book I have read and loved by Steve N. Lee. This is such a touching story about the difference a dog can make in the lives of the people they live with. Rachel lives with her son, Wes and her tenant Izzy. Wes is on the autism spectrum and his father left them a few years earlier. Rachel basically homeschools Wes and tries to draw him out of himself. Peter, her ex, has just informed her that he wants to cut back on alimony and child support as he and his new partner are expecting a baby. Rachel is a freelance artist and never knows how much money she will make or when she will get a job. Meanwhile, Harley a border collie is dealing with his own issues. His owner, Barney has died and Harley doesn't know what is wrong with him. When someone breaks into the house Harley escapes and eventually is found by Rachel and Wes. They bring him home to try and find his owner. What they didn't expect was that all their lives were about to change forever.
This was such a great story. I loved that the book was narrated by Rachel and Harley. Stories told from an animal's POV always make me laugh. I don't want to give the story away, so will just tell you that this was a well-written and developed story. The characters were realistic and I loved them all, especially Izzy. She was more like a sister than a tenant. There were so many heartwarming moments in this story and times that I was as close to tears as Rachel. Having a grandson on the autism spectrum, I was able to identify with Wes and all his sensory issues. Fortunately, we have a lot of educational opportunities here, so he is in school full time, but I know how Rachel felt about her regimen with Wes. I love happy endings, especially in this type of story, but Steve N. Lee has given us two options in this book. You can have a happy, warm and fuzzy ending or a dark, crushing ending. I read both of them but of course preferred the happy one. If you love stories about dogs, stories where a rescued animal finds his place, a story about children with special needs or just a warm and uplifting story, I recommend you pick up When The Skies Cry.
This was such a great story. I loved that the book was narrated by Rachel and Harley. Stories told from an animal's POV always make me laugh. I don't want to give the story away, so will just tell you that this was a well-written and developed story. The characters were realistic and I loved them all, especially Izzy. She was more like a sister than a tenant. There were so many heartwarming moments in this story and times that I was as close to tears as Rachel. Having a grandson on the autism spectrum, I was able to identify with Wes and all his sensory issues. Fortunately, we have a lot of educational opportunities here, so he is in school full time, but I know how Rachel felt about her regimen with Wes. I love happy endings, especially in this type of story, but Steve N. Lee has given us two options in this book. You can have a happy, warm and fuzzy ending or a dark, crushing ending. I read both of them but of course preferred the happy one. If you love stories about dogs, stories where a rescued animal finds his place, a story about children with special needs or just a warm and uplifting story, I recommend you pick up When The Skies Cry.
October 22, 2021
I should've known what I was getting my heart into...
...but I just couldn't stop myself.
Just as he did in the first book, author Steve N. Lee grabs you by the heartstrings and won't let you go. We open with Harley and his current master in a bad situation. He's trying everything a good dog knows to do, and even as good as he is, things are going to go much more wrong before they ever start to get better. He soon learns the world isn't as dog friendly, if you're traveling in a pack of one, but even with those setbacks, even with the world lashing out at him, he still has a heart of gold. He's still a GOOD DOG. He shows kindness to a stray pup...one that's awfully familiar (*hint hint*...~whispers~ from the first book!)...and when a human stranger reaches out a hand to him, he accepts it in kind, even to the point of risking his own life to safe theirs. All should be well from there then, right? Aww, I see you're new to his writing...
The human side of the story is just as tragic and yet just as beautiful. A mother and her son facing life unlike either was prepared for, depending on one another in ways they can't even fathom, and then at the worst of times...a dog in the road, or rather park. It's not what wanted at the time, but it just might be what they BOTH need in order to turn their lives around. Add in a health scare, multiply that by a few, and the confusion that things like that can bring to any family, let alone one living with, and loving someone severely on the spectrum...and you begin to see the lay of the land. Things get better, and things get worse...just as in life...but they still push through each day, growing, learning, loving, and when they can, laughing. It sounds like a simple thing, but it can be the very best sound in the world to your heart.
All in all, a wonderful story that will leave you in pieces, yet you wouldn't have it any other way. It was harsh, yet genuine. It seemed like their lot in life to struggle, and yet an angel on four legs was sent their way. I cried, several times, for the beauty of the tale, and my broken heart from the words spilling forth on the page like so many tears from my eyes. You wanted to help them understand so much. You wanted to be there for them to break their falls. You wanted to undo all the hurts, and losses, and bad times, leaving only the good behind...but if life shows us anything, you have to take the good with the bad because in the end it makes it that much sweeter.
**ecopy received for review; opinions are my own
...but I just couldn't stop myself.
Just as he did in the first book, author Steve N. Lee grabs you by the heartstrings and won't let you go. We open with Harley and his current master in a bad situation. He's trying everything a good dog knows to do, and even as good as he is, things are going to go much more wrong before they ever start to get better. He soon learns the world isn't as dog friendly, if you're traveling in a pack of one, but even with those setbacks, even with the world lashing out at him, he still has a heart of gold. He's still a GOOD DOG. He shows kindness to a stray pup...one that's awfully familiar (*hint hint*...~whispers~ from the first book!)...and when a human stranger reaches out a hand to him, he accepts it in kind, even to the point of risking his own life to safe theirs. All should be well from there then, right? Aww, I see you're new to his writing...
The human side of the story is just as tragic and yet just as beautiful. A mother and her son facing life unlike either was prepared for, depending on one another in ways they can't even fathom, and then at the worst of times...a dog in the road, or rather park. It's not what wanted at the time, but it just might be what they BOTH need in order to turn their lives around. Add in a health scare, multiply that by a few, and the confusion that things like that can bring to any family, let alone one living with, and loving someone severely on the spectrum...and you begin to see the lay of the land. Things get better, and things get worse...just as in life...but they still push through each day, growing, learning, loving, and when they can, laughing. It sounds like a simple thing, but it can be the very best sound in the world to your heart.
All in all, a wonderful story that will leave you in pieces, yet you wouldn't have it any other way. It was harsh, yet genuine. It seemed like their lot in life to struggle, and yet an angel on four legs was sent their way. I cried, several times, for the beauty of the tale, and my broken heart from the words spilling forth on the page like so many tears from my eyes. You wanted to help them understand so much. You wanted to be there for them to break their falls. You wanted to undo all the hurts, and losses, and bad times, leaving only the good behind...but if life shows us anything, you have to take the good with the bad because in the end it makes it that much sweeter.
**ecopy received for review; opinions are my own
October 22, 2021
Have tissues on hand, this book has all the feels running through it.
This book (really the series) is a must read for all dog lovers. While this story is a stand alone, there are some bits and pieces from As The Stars Fall that you just might recognize while reading this book.
This book is told from two points of view - Harvey, a dog that is not sure what happened to his owner, and Rachel, a single mom with a special needs son that isn't sure how she is going to handle everything. That is until Harvey shows up in their lives and she sees the impact that he makes on her son. Harvey is also looking for something to fill his life, he needs a job because he is a working dog. It is the little things that he does that makes an impact in Rachel and Wes' life.
I enjoyed watching the interaction between all of the characters, the fierceness of Rachel when protecting her son and eventually Harvey, and the touching moments throughout. Now, there are a few "mean" characters but thankfully they don't get very far in this story. The ending had me in tears which is why you need some tissues handy. Actually, you need those tissues throughout the whole book, so many moments that will touch your heart and soul.
I also related to Rachel as a cancer survivor and what she had to endure.
Apparently, there are now two ending options available, but I only read the original and didn't have the chance to check out the other ending. I think you probably can't go wrong with either one as both will strike a chord with different people.
We give this book 5 paws up.
This book (really the series) is a must read for all dog lovers. While this story is a stand alone, there are some bits and pieces from As The Stars Fall that you just might recognize while reading this book.
This book is told from two points of view - Harvey, a dog that is not sure what happened to his owner, and Rachel, a single mom with a special needs son that isn't sure how she is going to handle everything. That is until Harvey shows up in their lives and she sees the impact that he makes on her son. Harvey is also looking for something to fill his life, he needs a job because he is a working dog. It is the little things that he does that makes an impact in Rachel and Wes' life.
I enjoyed watching the interaction between all of the characters, the fierceness of Rachel when protecting her son and eventually Harvey, and the touching moments throughout. Now, there are a few "mean" characters but thankfully they don't get very far in this story. The ending had me in tears which is why you need some tissues handy. Actually, you need those tissues throughout the whole book, so many moments that will touch your heart and soul.
I also related to Rachel as a cancer survivor and what she had to endure.
Apparently, there are now two ending options available, but I only read the original and didn't have the chance to check out the other ending. I think you probably can't go wrong with either one as both will strike a chord with different people.
We give this book 5 paws up.
October 22, 2021
I loved As the Stars Fall, so I was greatly looking forward to reading As the Skies Cry. Before reading, I suggest a nice hot cup of tea, a cozy blanket, and a box of tissues. This was such an emotional read. There are both heartbreaking and heart-warming moments in this book, and I shed tears of joy and happiness while reading it. Rachel and Harley were wonderful narrators, and you couldn’t help but fall in love with them as you went through the story. Perfect for anyone who’s looking for a story that will hit you in the feelings.
November 22, 2022
11/22/2022
I read this book in the past and I was so excited when the author asked me to check out the audiobook version. I had to say yes...of course.
We follow Harley who loses everything when his beloved owner dies. He finds himself on the streets and alone with an empty tummy. Across town, we also follow Rachel who has an alimony hearing looming and a make-or-break deadline for work heading her way. On top of that, she is trying to take care of her autistic son who has severely withdrawn since his father left. Luckily, life is full of surprises that no one ever sees coming.
Awwww! This was just as good as it was when I first read it. This time I did the audio, but it was still just as good. This is technically part of a series, but this does well as a standalone.
All the feels! Joy, happiness, sadness...all of them.
You can't help but want to cuddle a dog! You can't help but love Harley and his people. They are great characters that you fall in love with so quickly.
Oof and that ending? Still hit me as hard as it did the first time I read it.
Yayy! I adore this narrator! I've listened to some of her works in the past. She is very good! She was perfect for this story I think. So yesss an extra bonus from me for the excellent narrator. Love this story and this narrator.
All-in-all this was just as good as when I first read it! Maybe even slightly better because I adore the narrator. She is really good. Read this (or do the audio). It will give you all the feels! 5 stars again.
10/22/2021
This is my second book by this author. I absolutely loved the other one so I was excited to read this one next!
I read this book in the past and I was so excited when the author asked me to check out the audiobook version. I had to say yes...of course.
We follow Harley who loses everything when his beloved owner dies. He finds himself on the streets and alone with an empty tummy. Across town, we also follow Rachel who has an alimony hearing looming and a make-or-break deadline for work heading her way. On top of that, she is trying to take care of her autistic son who has severely withdrawn since his father left. Luckily, life is full of surprises that no one ever sees coming.
Awwww! This was just as good as it was when I first read it. This time I did the audio, but it was still just as good. This is technically part of a series, but this does well as a standalone.
All the feels! Joy, happiness, sadness...all of them.
You can't help but want to cuddle a dog! You can't help but love Harley and his people. They are great characters that you fall in love with so quickly.
Oof and that ending? Still hit me as hard as it did the first time I read it.
Yayy! I adore this narrator! I've listened to some of her works in the past. She is very good! She was perfect for this story I think. So yesss an extra bonus from me for the excellent narrator. Love this story and this narrator.
All-in-all this was just as good as when I first read it! Maybe even slightly better because I adore the narrator. She is really good. Read this (or do the audio). It will give you all the feels! 5 stars again.
10/22/2021
This is my second book by this author. I absolutely loved the other one so I was excited to read this one next!
We follow Harley who loses everything when his beloved owner dies. He finds himself on the streets and alone with an empty tummy. Across town, we also follow Rachel who has an alimony hearing looming and a make-or-break deadline for work heading her way. On top of that, she is trying to take care of her autistic son who has severely withdrawn since his father left. Luckily, life is full of surprises that no one ever sees coming.
Oh man. The author has done it again.
All the feels are here friends. Joy, happiness, sadness, glee, tears.....all of them. It was a roller coaster of emotion. It was so heart-warming and you won't put it down. I finished it within a day (dang work slowing me down). I just HAD to know what was going to happen especially after a couple of events. Can't say. No spoilers here!!! It would ruin the tale for sure.
The author really knows how to bring all characters to life. Not just the people, but our fuzzy characters as well. Fabulous. Fantastic.
This is for sure a big contender for book of the year (I've gotten a couple already there - so there will be some stiff competition in December when I have to pick!). This had everything and you can't help but root for this little family.
That ending.....oh that ending. If you feel nothing at the end....you are heartless. It was so good. Did NOT see any of that happening.
Overall, fantastic read. I highly recommend this. It's technically book 2, but there is no order, but you should read both this and the first one. I see a 3rd book is coming out....can't wait!! Read it. It'll give you all the feels. 5 stars of course.
November 1, 2021
Amazing dog…amazing book!
I really enjoyed Steve’s first dog book about Kai, and this book about Harley drew me in! I also have a special needs son that I homeschool so I could really relate to the heroine. The choice between endings was unique and I enjoyed that too:). I highly recommend this book to all dog lovers!
I really enjoyed Steve’s first dog book about Kai, and this book about Harley drew me in! I also have a special needs son that I homeschool so I could really relate to the heroine. The choice between endings was unique and I enjoyed that too:). I highly recommend this book to all dog lovers!
June 20, 2022
I loved this story, but it is definitely bittersweet. The human and dog characters were loveable and well developed. You don’t need to read book 1 first as the stories are unrelated; I liked the brief appearance of Kai from book 1. Some reviews said there were two endings to choose from, but my audio version had just the one. I’m ready for book 3, got my Kleenex handy!
May 19, 2025
There have been a couple times in my life that a book I read is eerily similar to real life. Eerily similar.
Rachel is a single mom raising her autistic son Wes, alone. Wes’ father had left both of them a while back to be with his secretary and that is where his motivation is. He chose that life instead of the one caring for his special needs son. Rachel’s mom also has her self-interests and has no connection with her own grandson.
Rachel’s life is consumed with giving Wes his best life possible. She is happy to do this and happy to put him in front of herself, but it demands a lot from her. It takes a lot to care for a child with autism. It’s a full time job on its own and she still has the rest of her own life’s responsibilities like work and leading the home to manage at the same time. All basically by herself. Each day she is up before the sun comes up to run and maintain her fitness so she can then carry the load for Wes and anything needed the rest of the day.
Rachel and Wes discover Harley, a stray dog one day while they are in the park. Harley lost his long time person after they passed away, and has been alone in the streets since. Life has been hard for Harley. Rachel has her hands so full with life that she tries to tell herself Harley will be fine and is leaving the park with Wes when she sees a group of boys bullying Harley. Bullying to the point that Harley is about to be seriously hurt or killed by them. Rachel stands up to the group and takes Harley home, and life is never the same.
Harley is a game changer for Wes. Rachel spends every day just trying for moments she may enter Wes’ world with him, but Harley immediately enters and Wes’ happiness and development skyrockets. If that wasn’t enough, as life’s tough moments continued to happen, Harley was there for those too.
Some dogs are angels. 😢🙏 ❤️
Rachel is a single mom raising her autistic son Wes, alone. Wes’ father had left both of them a while back to be with his secretary and that is where his motivation is. He chose that life instead of the one caring for his special needs son. Rachel’s mom also has her self-interests and has no connection with her own grandson.
Rachel’s life is consumed with giving Wes his best life possible. She is happy to do this and happy to put him in front of herself, but it demands a lot from her. It takes a lot to care for a child with autism. It’s a full time job on its own and she still has the rest of her own life’s responsibilities like work and leading the home to manage at the same time. All basically by herself. Each day she is up before the sun comes up to run and maintain her fitness so she can then carry the load for Wes and anything needed the rest of the day.
Rachel and Wes discover Harley, a stray dog one day while they are in the park. Harley lost his long time person after they passed away, and has been alone in the streets since. Life has been hard for Harley. Rachel has her hands so full with life that she tries to tell herself Harley will be fine and is leaving the park with Wes when she sees a group of boys bullying Harley. Bullying to the point that Harley is about to be seriously hurt or killed by them. Rachel stands up to the group and takes Harley home, and life is never the same.
Harley is a game changer for Wes. Rachel spends every day just trying for moments she may enter Wes’ world with him, but Harley immediately enters and Wes’ happiness and development skyrockets. If that wasn’t enough, as life’s tough moments continued to happen, Harley was there for those too.
Some dogs are angels. 😢🙏 ❤️
October 21, 2021
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for a review.
Rachel and Wes are a family of two. Rachel is able to work from home as an artist while caring for her son who is on the autism spectrum. And they are managing…barely. Their friend Izzy already lends a helping hand, but it isn’t until someone new enters the mix that they all become family.
Harley is a trained working dog whose original owner has died. It is nothing short of a miracle that unites Harley with Rachel and Wes. And Wes blooms. He starts doing things Rachel never thought she’d see. All because of the love of a dog.
This book is filled with emotion. I will readily admit to having a few ‘handkerchief’ moments. It was revealing to read the chapters told in Harley’s voice, to understand his role as a working dog, and to understand his confusion when faced with new things. And to see his determination to help his pack at all cost. It brought so much more depth to the story. The story covered some difficult subjects, but throughout the whole story, the feeling of ‘family’ came through.
There are two alternate endings. I chose to read the softer, fuzzier one. I have not read the primary ending. I am a ‘happily ever after’ kind of gal.
This story will touch a special place in the reader’s heart. As a dog lover, it also reminds me of the devotion these beloved animals bring to our lives.
Rachel and Wes are a family of two. Rachel is able to work from home as an artist while caring for her son who is on the autism spectrum. And they are managing…barely. Their friend Izzy already lends a helping hand, but it isn’t until someone new enters the mix that they all become family.
Harley is a trained working dog whose original owner has died. It is nothing short of a miracle that unites Harley with Rachel and Wes. And Wes blooms. He starts doing things Rachel never thought she’d see. All because of the love of a dog.
This book is filled with emotion. I will readily admit to having a few ‘handkerchief’ moments. It was revealing to read the chapters told in Harley’s voice, to understand his role as a working dog, and to understand his confusion when faced with new things. And to see his determination to help his pack at all cost. It brought so much more depth to the story. The story covered some difficult subjects, but throughout the whole story, the feeling of ‘family’ came through.
There are two alternate endings. I chose to read the softer, fuzzier one. I have not read the primary ending. I am a ‘happily ever after’ kind of gal.
This story will touch a special place in the reader’s heart. As a dog lover, it also reminds me of the devotion these beloved animals bring to our lives.
December 11, 2024
Another wonderful book for dog lovers, that is written with so much love and compassion. This is written from two perspectives: one is Rachel, the mother of Wes who is autistic and has special needs; two is Harley, a dog who’s owner has died, and Harley is now homeless and roaming the streets trying to survive. Rachel and Wes find Harley in a park, or did Harley find Rachel and Wes. It’s obvious they were unwittingly drawn together for a reason, or more importantly ‘a purpose’.
Wes is so far on the spectrum that Rachel can’t even touch him and he can’t interact with other people. But when Harley moves in with Rachel and Wes, Wes loves Harley and calls him his best friend, something Wes was never capable of. Rachel and Wes are instantly aware of Harleys unique talents. As for Harley, he knows he has found a new pack, a pack that really needs his guidance and Harley now knows what his purpose is.
I have mixed feelings on the ending, but we were forewarned: Choose Your Own Ending: 1 Dark and powerful,2 Light and hopeful..
I read both endings and both were well written and well thought out.
Wes is so far on the spectrum that Rachel can’t even touch him and he can’t interact with other people. But when Harley moves in with Rachel and Wes, Wes loves Harley and calls him his best friend, something Wes was never capable of. Rachel and Wes are instantly aware of Harleys unique talents. As for Harley, he knows he has found a new pack, a pack that really needs his guidance and Harley now knows what his purpose is.
I have mixed feelings on the ending, but we were forewarned: Choose Your Own Ending: 1 Dark and powerful,2 Light and hopeful..
I read both endings and both were well written and well thought out.
October 20, 2021
I loved this book. The author did a fantastic job writing it. I read his first book, “As the Stars Fall.” This book, as the first, was a real tear jerker but didn’t disappoint. I am a breast cancer survivor x 2 but went through nothing like the character in this book. I was glad the author went into such great detail with the kind Rachel had and how it was handled. (I received an advanced copy from the author via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.)
October 21, 2021
This book is worthy of more than 5 stars. Harley's world turns upside down when his owner dies. Harley has lost everything and ends up on the streets. Then one day in the park he meets Rachel and her son Wes. They take him home and are amazed at all the things Harley can do. Harley brings Wes put of his shell. It was great to follow the lives of Rachel, Wes, Izzy, Mom and of Harley. This book will touch your heart I know it did mine. I received this book for my honest review'
October 21, 2021
I love stories that don't always wrap up in a neat bow. When the Skies Cry is a beautiful, touching, and heartwarming story. The author is masterful at crafting a page-turning novel. He creates such real characters and scenes. The story is about a dog who loses its master and a mother who has a special needs child.
I highly recommend this book.
I highly recommend this book.
October 20, 2021
Steve N Lee has done it again with When the Skies Cry. What a fabulous book. I absolutely loved this book, once again written from the dog's perspective, with a twist that I didn't forsee. I will enjoy reading this book again. Wonderful story!
November 27, 2022
The story is told from the perspective of a dog, a service animal whose first owner dies unexpectedly and leaves Harley, the dog, orphaned and abandoned. The other protagonist is the mother of a son with autism. She and her “pack” rescue Harley, whose companionship helps the son immeasurably.
October 15, 2021
Omg, Steve N.Lee has done it again. Beautiful story, showing the amazing bonds with our dog. How they truly are our best friends and part of our family. All the emotions and feels show up in this book. I loved book one and this book is just as good.
October 24, 2021
When the Skies Cry by Steve N Lee is another one of his standalone novels that centers on a dog. Having read the previous book by Lee, I looked forward to reading this one. I really enjoyed this book, though I did have mixed feelings, which I will detail later in this review.
We meet Harley at the start, as he doesn’t understand why his owner isn’t responding to him. The owner is dead, and in a short time Harley finds himself on the streets, desperate for food, and everywhere he goes, no one helps him, and he runs into nasty teenagers who try to harm him.
Rachel, our heroine, has an autistic son, and is divorced; she has her hands full trying to train her son, who is very withdrawn, at doing questions and answers. When she takes Wes for a walk in the park, the nasty teenagers make fun of her son, until Harley comes out under the bench and scares the teenagers. Wes finds himself enamored of the dog, and though Rachel does not want to bring the dog home, she sees he is starving, and most importantly, the dog seems to bring out another side to Wes.
When Rachel can’t find Harley’s owner, she decides to keep him, as she can see the change in Wes. Harley was a fantastic dog, knowing all kinds of tricks, especially making Wes and even Rachel laugh. In a short time, she will have to fight for Harley, as the deceased owner left a will, but the lawyer knows what is best for the dog, and luckily it turns into her favor. Harley was an amazingly and wonderful dog, so much fun, and very loyal to both Wes and Rachel. Wes improved so much, even in a specialized school, they notice how much more he is talking and even helping others.
Now to my mixed feelings. I thought the early part where Harley suffered was a bit depressing, though I understood that. The majority of the book was wonderful, however the last few chapters of the end of the book totally turned me off, as it was very depressing and a shock. The author decided to create an alternate ending that the reader can choose; which I did enjoy and chose. When the Skies Cry was well written by Steve N Lee.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
We meet Harley at the start, as he doesn’t understand why his owner isn’t responding to him. The owner is dead, and in a short time Harley finds himself on the streets, desperate for food, and everywhere he goes, no one helps him, and he runs into nasty teenagers who try to harm him.
Rachel, our heroine, has an autistic son, and is divorced; she has her hands full trying to train her son, who is very withdrawn, at doing questions and answers. When she takes Wes for a walk in the park, the nasty teenagers make fun of her son, until Harley comes out under the bench and scares the teenagers. Wes finds himself enamored of the dog, and though Rachel does not want to bring the dog home, she sees he is starving, and most importantly, the dog seems to bring out another side to Wes.
When Rachel can’t find Harley’s owner, she decides to keep him, as she can see the change in Wes. Harley was a fantastic dog, knowing all kinds of tricks, especially making Wes and even Rachel laugh. In a short time, she will have to fight for Harley, as the deceased owner left a will, but the lawyer knows what is best for the dog, and luckily it turns into her favor. Harley was an amazingly and wonderful dog, so much fun, and very loyal to both Wes and Rachel. Wes improved so much, even in a specialized school, they notice how much more he is talking and even helping others.
Now to my mixed feelings. I thought the early part where Harley suffered was a bit depressing, though I understood that. The majority of the book was wonderful, however the last few chapters of the end of the book totally turned me off, as it was very depressing and a shock. The author decided to create an alternate ending that the reader can choose; which I did enjoy and chose. When the Skies Cry was well written by Steve N Lee.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
October 23, 2021
Read my full review on Rosepoint Publishing.
When The Skies Cry is the second in the Dog Lovers book series and you’ll be glad to know the author does not resort to anthropomorphics in his descriptions of Harley. No, Harley has his own POV and is probably just what the canine might actually be thinking, rather than the emotions and thoughts we attribute to them.
This story revolves around Rachel and her son Wesley who is on the extreme side of the autism spectrum. When Harley comes into their lives, however, there is a dramatic change in Wes—for the good, and any change in Wes is an improvement.
Rachel is blessed with having Izzy as a friend/tenant who is immediately drawn to Harley as well. Meanwhile, Harley appears to have found his “new purpose.” He likes to work and is very smart and well trained thanks to his former owner’s service needs.
The storyline marks Wes’s remarkable improvements at the same time tragedy strikes. The dog is confused by the changes in the household and the dialog is fun at how he puzzles through the appropriate response to solve the problem.
I was a bit surprised by the twist in the conclusion, but in the meantime an immersive story with engaging characters. A sweet novel once again championing the bond between man and the canine species who has been learning how to perceive and handle their humans for a long time.
I really enjoyed As the Stars Fall (Book 1) and was happy to add this one to my “Books for Dog Lovers” list. You will too. Recommended. 4.5 stars
When The Skies Cry is the second in the Dog Lovers book series and you’ll be glad to know the author does not resort to anthropomorphics in his descriptions of Harley. No, Harley has his own POV and is probably just what the canine might actually be thinking, rather than the emotions and thoughts we attribute to them.
This story revolves around Rachel and her son Wesley who is on the extreme side of the autism spectrum. When Harley comes into their lives, however, there is a dramatic change in Wes—for the good, and any change in Wes is an improvement.
Rachel is blessed with having Izzy as a friend/tenant who is immediately drawn to Harley as well. Meanwhile, Harley appears to have found his “new purpose.” He likes to work and is very smart and well trained thanks to his former owner’s service needs.
The storyline marks Wes’s remarkable improvements at the same time tragedy strikes. The dog is confused by the changes in the household and the dialog is fun at how he puzzles through the appropriate response to solve the problem.
I was a bit surprised by the twist in the conclusion, but in the meantime an immersive story with engaging characters. A sweet novel once again championing the bond between man and the canine species who has been learning how to perceive and handle their humans for a long time.
I really enjoyed As the Stars Fall (Book 1) and was happy to add this one to my “Books for Dog Lovers” list. You will too. Recommended. 4.5 stars
November 8, 2021
“The magic of life is in the surprises no one ever sees coming.”
When the Skies Cry by Steve N. Lee, Book 2 of the “Books for Dog Lovers” series, is a poignant novel showing the power of a dog’s love and loyalty.
Harley, a handsome black and white support dog, served his master well. The two were inseparable. When his master dies, Harley is confused and miserable. As he wanders around town, he doesn’t know what to do, where to go. Fighting cold and hunger, he can’t survive much longer.
Rachel, a single mom, is having a tough time. Wes, her eleven year-old autistic son and the center of her life, is withdrawing into his own world. Wes can’t tolerate being touched and he’s getting more difficult to handle each day. Rachel, divorced, is trying to eke out a living as an illustrator, something she can do at home so she can be with her son.
On an outing to the park, Rachel and Wes encounter Harley as he’s being tormented by a group of teenage boys. She steps in and rescues the poor dog. But now what? She can’t leave him in the cold or at the mercy of these mean boys. She takes him home. To her surprise and Wes’s joy, they find the dog is amazingly smart. Someone is missing a valuable dog and Rachel feels she must make an effort to contact his owner. But then, what about Wes? He’s already fallen in love with this smart, affectionate dog.
When the Skies Cry is an excellent read, but more than that, it shows the value of a dog’s love. A trained support dog is a priceless companion and one to be cherished. I recommend this novel to anyone who loves dogs–from teens to senior citizens.
When the Skies Cry by Steve N. Lee, Book 2 of the “Books for Dog Lovers” series, is a poignant novel showing the power of a dog’s love and loyalty.
Harley, a handsome black and white support dog, served his master well. The two were inseparable. When his master dies, Harley is confused and miserable. As he wanders around town, he doesn’t know what to do, where to go. Fighting cold and hunger, he can’t survive much longer.
Rachel, a single mom, is having a tough time. Wes, her eleven year-old autistic son and the center of her life, is withdrawing into his own world. Wes can’t tolerate being touched and he’s getting more difficult to handle each day. Rachel, divorced, is trying to eke out a living as an illustrator, something she can do at home so she can be with her son.
On an outing to the park, Rachel and Wes encounter Harley as he’s being tormented by a group of teenage boys. She steps in and rescues the poor dog. But now what? She can’t leave him in the cold or at the mercy of these mean boys. She takes him home. To her surprise and Wes’s joy, they find the dog is amazingly smart. Someone is missing a valuable dog and Rachel feels she must make an effort to contact his owner. But then, what about Wes? He’s already fallen in love with this smart, affectionate dog.
When the Skies Cry is an excellent read, but more than that, it shows the value of a dog’s love. A trained support dog is a priceless companion and one to be cherished. I recommend this novel to anyone who loves dogs–from teens to senior citizens.
October 22, 2021
“Woof it’s a hit for me!”
A very cute and warm story about Harley, Rachel and Wes, Harley being a black and white collie; yes a dog! A great book that’s not just for dog lovers but for anyone however “great for all dog lovers!”
What a very joyful, heartfelt, funny and sad book. Although not being my usual genre I really enjoyed reading this book and was such a nice change.
It all starts with Harley losing everything when his master Barney dies. Roaming the streets for day’s being sad, confused, cold and hungry he meets or bumps into Rachel and her autistic son Wes and saves the day when they are cornered by a gang of bullies in a local park.
Against her better judgment she takes a very dirty and smelly Harley home and strange but wonderful things start happening with Wes and Harley making a magical connection which changes his and everyone’s lives. All told in a dog eye view this story grips you and takes you on a wonderful sentimental trip though a dog’s eye.
A masterpiece and enduring wonderful read for all ages.
A very cute and warm story about Harley, Rachel and Wes, Harley being a black and white collie; yes a dog! A great book that’s not just for dog lovers but for anyone however “great for all dog lovers!”
What a very joyful, heartfelt, funny and sad book. Although not being my usual genre I really enjoyed reading this book and was such a nice change.
It all starts with Harley losing everything when his master Barney dies. Roaming the streets for day’s being sad, confused, cold and hungry he meets or bumps into Rachel and her autistic son Wes and saves the day when they are cornered by a gang of bullies in a local park.
Against her better judgment she takes a very dirty and smelly Harley home and strange but wonderful things start happening with Wes and Harley making a magical connection which changes his and everyone’s lives. All told in a dog eye view this story grips you and takes you on a wonderful sentimental trip though a dog’s eye.
A masterpiece and enduring wonderful read for all ages.
October 24, 2021
Touching, gut-wrenching, just plain amazing! This is the second book in the series and it is as fabulous if not better than the first (btw, you don't have to have read the first to enjoy this book)...and, here's an interesting twist, you can pick your ending! How wonderful is that...so you don't have to have a sad ending, but, regardless of which ending you select, you won't be disappointed. The story is told by both views from a human (Rachel) with mounting problems and no solutions in sight, and the dog (Harley), who actually gives a realistic view of what you can imagine a dog might say/think! I'm getting tearful just writing this review...since I never reveal spoilers, it's making this even harder to write. But, here's what you need to know: Pick this book up now, you won't be sorry. A lovingly written and well-told story about how a dog can completely transform a life or lives...grab a BOX of tissues, a quiet place to curl up and enjoy this unputdownable book that is not a tearjerker, but a heartstring tugger!
January 9, 2022
Disclaimer: I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
A beautifully written story that focused a lot more on the people as compared to the first book of the series. This book is heartwarming, heartbreaking and, like the first book, made me acutely aware of the little things in life that we take for granted and introduced a new perspective, from both that of the dog and the people. The characters in this story is lovable, they each have their own quirks, their own way of handling things and it's interesting to see how everything ties together with the introduction of the dog.
Narration by Brittany Presley is absolutely perfect. She brings out all the character's emotions, struggles and expressions so well, and sets a very good mood. The way she read the lines of the characters are simply amazing, she really brought everyone to life.
A beautifully written story that focused a lot more on the people as compared to the first book of the series. This book is heartwarming, heartbreaking and, like the first book, made me acutely aware of the little things in life that we take for granted and introduced a new perspective, from both that of the dog and the people. The characters in this story is lovable, they each have their own quirks, their own way of handling things and it's interesting to see how everything ties together with the introduction of the dog.
Narration by Brittany Presley is absolutely perfect. She brings out all the character's emotions, struggles and expressions so well, and sets a very good mood. The way she read the lines of the characters are simply amazing, she really brought everyone to life.
June 6, 2023
An absolutely fabulous book that I loved from start to finish. Five stars. If you love dogs then this is a must read. Harley will have you both laughing and crying and his love for his pack members, Rachel a single mum, Wes her autistic son and Izzie her friend will just melt your heart. A beautiful story.
**************
Sometimes, the one you’re saving is really saving you.
Harley loses everything when his master dies — his home, his best friend, his reason for living. Day after day, he trudges the streets, trembling from the biting cold, whimpering from the gnawing hunger.
Across town, Rachel has an alimony hearing looming and a make-or-break deadline hurtling toward her, yet they aren’t her biggest worries — her autistic son has withdrawn so far into his own private world, he barely acknowledges she even exists.
Luckily, the magic of life is in the surprises no one ever sees coming…
**************
Sometimes, the one you’re saving is really saving you.
Harley loses everything when his master dies — his home, his best friend, his reason for living. Day after day, he trudges the streets, trembling from the biting cold, whimpering from the gnawing hunger.
Across town, Rachel has an alimony hearing looming and a make-or-break deadline hurtling toward her, yet they aren’t her biggest worries — her autistic son has withdrawn so far into his own private world, he barely acknowledges she even exists.
Luckily, the magic of life is in the surprises no one ever sees coming…
December 30, 2022
Yet another winner. Steve's first book I rated in the amount of tissues I used at different parts of the book, but with this second book, I reverted to the loo roll that hasn't got a paper tube and I polished two of those off.
I have to ask you a question Steve. How many times do you blub when you are writing these wonderful stories? Be honest now...
'When the Skies Cry' differed from other dog stories by the hero, Harley was loved and cherished by the first family he found after his original master died.
You must read this book, it is so well written.
I'm now ready to read the final book and I'm well prepared with tissues and loo rolls. Happy 2023 everyone, and dare I ask if there could be a 4th dog book coming out Steve?
I have to ask you a question Steve. How many times do you blub when you are writing these wonderful stories? Be honest now...
'When the Skies Cry' differed from other dog stories by the hero, Harley was loved and cherished by the first family he found after his original master died.
You must read this book, it is so well written.
I'm now ready to read the final book and I'm well prepared with tissues and loo rolls. Happy 2023 everyone, and dare I ask if there could be a 4th dog book coming out Steve?
November 8, 2021
I was very moved by this story about Harley. The passages describing when Harley met Rachel and her autistic son painted a picture that will stay in my imagination for a long time. The story was creative with moments of heartrending sorrow and laugh out loud joy. There was always something happening and I couldn't wait to find out what would happen next. I recommend this story to others. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. Brittany Presley does an amazing job as the narrator as her voice was very expressive. I was given a free copy of the audiobook and I have voluntarily left this review.
November 13, 2021
I listened to the audio version of this book.This is a really powerful story of a dog helped by a woman and her son (who is on the spectrum) that ends up giving more to them than they could ever give him. This is the second book in the series and I really love the point of view of the dogs. I found myself thinking, "Oh, yeah. That's how dogs feel about that". I'd have to remind myself that the author had just written it well enough to make me believe that he knows way more than is possible. I so want to believe!
This is a great story, but be prepared to cry. I think the story is worth the tears.
I was gifted a copy of this audiobook by the author. All thoughts are my own.
This is a great story, but be prepared to cry. I think the story is worth the tears.
I was gifted a copy of this audiobook by the author. All thoughts are my own.
December 11, 2021
I really enjoyed this book, it was different than my normal reads. But it was heartwarming, and dealt with some things I have been going through. Just having the rest of a kidney removed due to a return of cancer in it. Also during surgery Dr. found a nodule that he removed, and it turned out to be stage 4. Now I have to have cat scans in four months again. We lost a son to glioblastoma fourteen years ago in June. He loved Christmas and loved decorating for it, also loved playing Santa, and he did it very well. Also we lost our first Sheltie about six months after we lost our son, she had cancer as well. Then in July of this year we lost our second Sheltie to heart problems. I not only wanted the best for our sons, but I dearly love animals, especially dogs, then cats.
October 28, 2023
I have never been so disappointed with a book. I was thoroughly enjoying the whole thing till the end. It was not until I finished that I looked closer at some reviews and saw people talking about an ALTERNATE ending! I have NEVER seen a book where you can CHOOSE what ending you want to see. Clearly if I had seen that offered I would have most definitely chosen the other ending! I was left feeling HORRIBLE after finishing the book because the ending totally ruined the whole story for me. I would like to read the OTHER ending but I don't want to pay for the whole book again. Terribly disappointed.
May 8, 2024
I won't deny that after two books from this series, I have become a big fan. I didn't think I could love a dog series book more than A Dog's Purpose but I stand corrected. My only complaint is the third book isn't in audiobook form...yet??? I sure hope it does because I want more! Also, I loved the connection between the first and second book where reoccurring characters make appearances. I will say as much as I loved the first, the second is my favorite and that's in no way saying the first was bad in any sense. The ending surprised me more than I thought and it was so unexpected at least for me.
March 21, 2023
Cute until...
Rachel single Mom seems to live under Murphy's Law. Her son, Wes, is on the spectrum. He needs things done on time and don't touch him. Her x-husband wants to cut her alimony because he's got a new baby on the way. She needs to be with Wes 24/7. She rescues a dog from some bullies who turns out to be very special. Harley changes their life. He's a rescue dog that rescues them. Highly trained Harley opens up Wes and finds Rachel's breast cancer. This is more smiles and fuzzy feelings than tears. Great job definitely different. Thank you.
Rachel single Mom seems to live under Murphy's Law. Her son, Wes, is on the spectrum. He needs things done on time and don't touch him. Her x-husband wants to cut her alimony because he's got a new baby on the way. She needs to be with Wes 24/7. She rescues a dog from some bullies who turns out to be very special. Harley changes their life. He's a rescue dog that rescues them. Highly trained Harley opens up Wes and finds Rachel's breast cancer. This is more smiles and fuzzy feelings than tears. Great job definitely different. Thank you.
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