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adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child death, Grief, Death of parent
Moderate: Animal cruelty, Miscarriage, Medical content, Abandonment, Alcohol, Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Addiction, Animal death, Mental illness, Blood, Vomit
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I was excited and honored to receive an ARC of *The Good Boy: A Novel* by Stella Hayward in exchange for my honest review. The book is an easy and charming read that allows the reader to set reality aside and enjoy a touch of magical realism.
On the eve of her 30th birthday, Genie, the main character, is granted a wish that mistakenly turns her golden retriever, Rory, into a human. Genie sets out on a quest to help Rory return to his dog form. Along the way, she confronts her mental health struggles, discovers her true self, and rebuilds her confidence. In classic rom-com fashion, it includes an adjacent quest that involves admitting her feelings for her best friend and neighbor of 15 years, Miles.
There are some hilarious moments as Rory navigates the challenges of being human. As he adjusts to his new form, Rory shares the wisdom he gained from Genie's loving care, reminding us that "things that love look after one another."
The Good Boy made me laugh and, surprisingly, brought some tears. It is ideal for readers who enjoy slow-burn romance, friends-to-lovers stories, closed-doors romance (no spice), and dogs (a golden retriever character!). The Good Boy reminds us that “Magic is hope.”
Content Warnings
Moderate: Mental illness
Minor: Animal cruelty, Child death, Grief, Death of parent