A review by tfpjr492
The Rescue by T. Jefferson Parker, T. Jefferson Parker

adventurous inspiring tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Journalist Bettina Blazak rescues what she thinks is a street dog from an animal shelter in Tijuana, and she brings dog Felix to her home in California. She writes about this dog in an article, which attracts a wide audience including some criminal elements. As the story develops, Bettina bravely unravels the history of this talented drug and currency detection dog. 

 

In some ways Bettina and dog Felix have led parallel lives, and it seems fateful that they would cross paths. Both characters have experienced the untimely loss of family members. Both characters are driven individuals. Dog Felix lives to make his human happy. Bettina habitually faces fear in her physical pursuits of surfing and biking. 

 

Both characters are unwitting victims of violence. Bettina carries her trauma with pluck, but she knows that she must free herself from its grip on her life. Dog Felix suffers a gunshot wound during a violent confrontation between rival criminal cartels. He heals, but he doesn’t forget. 

 

Both characters live with purpose. Dog Felix wants to make the team. Journalist Bettina wants to write stories that matter. 

 

The author has created just the right number of characters. When the book is finished, the reader can remember them all. This is an action packed story of loyalty, fearlessness, and the vagaries of romance. It is an inspiring tale that shows when life is tough, we can be steadfast