Stay (book review)

I asked a fellow reader friend (who happens to also be a puppy-lover), to guest-review Stay, author Allie Larkin’s first novel.

Savannah “Van” is a great friend—so much so that she has just stood as maid of honor at her best friend’s wedding…to the guy Van has loved since college. With no one to turn to for support, no one on her side, Van wants a loyal friend.

One night, under the influence of vodka splashed with grape Kool-Aid, she orders herself a dog known for having a loyal nature, a German Shepherd. Van is expecting a cute, fluffy puppy, but when Joe arrives, he is well past that stage, already nearing the hundred-pound mark. Another surprise to Van, Joe only responds to commands in Slovak! 

Joe might be large, but he is cute and his personality quickly wins over Van’s heart. His intimidating appearance doesn’t make her anymore friends; in fact she has to find a new place to live. And with that, Van’s life starts to turn around. Joe leads Van to meet people that see the best in her and give her a future she didn’t see possible.

Dog lover or not, you will enjoy the characters, friendships and romance that Larkin’s debut novel offers.  I thought the storyline about the triangle of the old friends, Van, and new potential boyfriend had the feel of an Emily Giffin novel, and kept me turning the pages until the end. 

The cover may look like this: http://www.cribnoteskelly.com/images.html

Allie Larkin lives in New York, along with her husband, two German Shepherds, and a three-legged cat. She’s also the cofounder of TheGreenists.com, a site dedicated to helping readers take simple steps toward going green. (Plus, she’s the cutest little thing!)

**Special thanks to guest reviewer (and wonderful friend) Kristin!!**