Pug Actually, by Matt Dunn, centres on loyal rescue dog Doug, who wants his owner Julie to find unconditional love and happiness. But the cute pug knows she won’t find either in the arms of Luke, her married boss.
Doug is terrified Julie will become a lonely cat-lover if she stays single too long, but he can’t let her fall for any more of Luke’s empty promises.
Julie needs to move on, and Doug is convinced that Tom, a newly divorced V-E-T, is perfect for her (despite his questionable occupation).
Doug doesn’t quite understand the quirks and complexities of human relationships, but he won’t let that get in the way of his mission to bring Tom and Julie together. After all, being a ‘rescue’ works both ways.
What I thought of the book
When I started this book, I wasn’t sure having an animal for a narrator in a book for grown-ups was going to work.
But now, after finishing Pug Actually, I can confirm it works a treat.
This heart-warming, funny tale kept me turning the pages and wondering if Doug would succeed in finding a worthy partner for his beloved owner.
The author, Matt Dunn, clearly relishes writing through the eyes of Doug. In fact, maybe he was a pug in a previous life? He writes with real warmth, so the characters feel like your friends, while the ‘villain’ Luke had me ‘booing’ under my breath.
There’s lots of humour, and it’s safe to say Doug steals the show from the ‘human’ characters.
This book is perfect as a holiday read or simply if you need cheering up, because it’s guaranteed to put a smile on your face. And my only criticism would be that I felt the book was longer than it needed to be.
So, if you’re single, perhaps you should think twice before signing up for a dating app. Instead, consider letting your four-legged friend play Cupid for you.
How much is the book and where can you buy it?
The eBook is £2.99. To buy, click here. (But please check Amazon for the latest price because it might change.)
About the book
Title: Pug Actually
Author: Matt Dunn
Publisher: HarperCollins
ISBN: 9780008455477
Pages: 384
About the author
Matt Dunn is the author of numerous romantic comedy novels, including the bestselling The Ex-Boyfriend’s Handbook. He’s also written about life, love, and relationships for various publications, including The Times, Guardian, Glamour, Cosmopolitan, Company, Elle, and The Sun. Previously, Matt worked as a professional lifeguard, fitness-equipment salesman, and an IT head-hunter.
Review by Colette Warbrook
You may also want to read this:
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eBook Review: The Smuggler’s Daughter by Kerry Barrett
eBook Review: Do Her No Harm by Naomi Joy
*We were given a copy of the eBook in return for a feature. All opinions are our own.
15 comments
What a lovely heartwarming concept! As a massive dog lover I love the idea of a dog playing cupid for you.
This is certainly a very creative form of presenting a romance. You have recommended book to me in the past and did not disappoint, so now Pu Actually is on my “to read” list. Thank you!
This sounds like such a great book. I added it to my list!
Having a dog as the narrator is different. It does sound good. I will add it to my summer reading list on your recommendation.
Sounds like such a great read! I love ebooks!
It is indeed, yes a fab ebook idea
So glad you do, so easy to take the kindle on holidays and not heavy books
This is adorable! I love pugs and though I’m not single, I’m sure they would be the best matchmaker 😀
Yes they certainly would
This sounds like a great book. I love ebooks. My kindle is full off them, lol!
So glad, a fab book to add to your summer reading list
I would also be a bit unsure if a pet would be a good narrator, I’ve only ever read one other book meant for young adults, with a pet narrator and it did seem like it was more on the kids side – so I’ll need to check this out as I love animals!
I enjoyed reading the book as it was nice to read from a different point of view, but yes best for you to read and decide
This does sound like a wonderful read and I am always looking for new titles to add to my reading list 😉
Thank you, it sure is a fun read